It's a problem when the drummer is the most compelling member of your group (just ask the Max Weinberg Seven). Producer-drummer ?uestlove is the crucial Root, while frontman Black Thought is more of a reliable MC than an exceptional one. The Roots have overcome this drawback by consistently pushing the boundaries of hip-hop. For every head-nodding beat (and ?uestlove brings plenty of 'em), Game Theory has a head-turning treat, from the "om" chant intro on the gospel-style "Baby" to the melancholy Radiohead sample of "Atonement." While the straight-ahead, singsong "Don't Feel Right" is underwhelming, bigger hooks come courtesy of "Long Time." A piece of Prince-ly cyberfunk with a gorgeous string arrangement by Philadelphia soul vet Larry Gold, the song celebrates growing up in Philly, with guest MC Peedi Peedi bringing some welcome humor: "It started in the bathroom taking a dump/Listening to Ultramagnetic Ego Trippin'." The album closer, "Can't Stop," is a fizzy eight-minute tribute to departed producer J Dilla, memorialized here as the "Muhammad Ali of beats."

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PETER RELIC

(Posted: Aug 23, 2006)