Baby J presents Skinnyman None Of Them 12" Baby J has been sitting on a pile of beats as deep as any producer for longer than most people have been listening to UK hip hop, and he’s finally starting to get some of the dues he deserves. Taken from his new album F.T.P., this single is a laid back affair, with Skinnyman rolling out over bluesy piano and mellow drums. There’s no reason why this won’t be as big as “I’ll be Surprised”, as it has plenty going for it. The only criticism is that the hook (sung by Laurissa, with horns squeaking behind) can grate after a while, but the track is good enough to overcome that. The B Side is a it of a departure, a kind of go-go soul single sung by nu-soul star Mpho Skeef called “Holla”, with a verse by Baby J’s longtime collaborater Yogi. Not the kind of thing I’d be playing out any time soon, but not bad, and growing on me. - Santero © ukhh.com 1999 - 2005