Today I became a Yes! man

I know it's a couple of days late, but I just finished listening to the fourth album from one of Canada's premier rap artists, k-os. His fourth album is titled Yes!, and Yes! is what fans around the world proclaimed earlier this week, as it's been too long since k-os' last effort, Atlantis: Hymns for Disco.

Yes! starts off like all k-os albums seem to, with a smooth, chilled track. This time around the lead off track is titled Zambony, and in true k-os style, he gives props to Canada in the first verse. From here on out, the album builds and builds taking you on a ride, keeping you locked in with your arms and legs inside the car at all times from start to finish like only a few MC's can.

With an album that holds it's own like this, it's hard to pick out highlights, but the Phantom Planet sample on I Wish I Knew Natalie Portman, is a definite. On a side note, here's a little cocktail party antidote for you...I Wish I Knew Natalie Portman was originally titled On The Run, but Saukrates who is on the track along with Nelly Fertado, is putting on his new album too. Since Saukrates got first dibs on the title, the record label contacted k-os and asked him to pick a different name for the tune, and he said "I Wish I Knew Natalie Portman", and the record dude said "Okay"...and it was done deal.

The first single 4 3 2 1, is a must-listen track, and a guest appearance from Emily Haines (Metric), on the track Uptown Girl is another highlight. Of course a the end of the last track, the Avenue, you're going to have to wait for it...wait for it...wait for it...the hidden track. It's there, as it always is.

All this being said, I've got to go back to the fact that you have to give this entire album a listen. In the words of a lot of people...It's All Good!

As for tour news for k-os, he's decided to support Yes! with a PWYC tour, called the Yes! Karma tour. You read right, pay what you can. How it works is you go to the venue and get a wristband long before the show...if you get one, you're in...if not, you're out of luck. Once you're inside there will be a booth where you can donate any amount you want. Here's the cool part (I know, like it could get any better), half of the proceeds are going to the David Suzuki Foundation. For all the tour dates and info check it - www.k-osmusic.com.

Do yourself and k-os a favour and pick up a copy of Yes!...and pay for it...after all the guy is giving us shows for whatever we can afford...plus, even I paid for it. ;-)