Undoubtedly and perhaps unfairly, the point of reference for most listeners with The Piece Talks, the collaborative debut of Los Angeles MC Blu and Detroit rapper/producer Ta’Raach under the moniker C.R.A.C. (“Collect Respect Anna Check”), is the 2007 album Below the Heavens, another collaboration yet between Blu and DJ/producer Exile. One of that year’s most refreshing efforts, Below the Heavens had underground and alternative rap circles buzzing about Blu and his ability to write full-fledged songs. Though lesser-known, former Jay Dee collaborator Ta’Raach (formerly known as Lacks) is a ten-plus-year veteran, both with the MPC and the microphone, and as the album’s sole producer, he helms the creative direction of The Piece Talks. Right off the bat on “Love Don’t,” the first track where the two rhyme, Ta’Raach’s presence is felt. His street-rap flow seamlessly bobs and weaves around the syncopated snare taps and downbeat of the drums. Blu isn’t quite as commanding, but he carefully crafts together his rhymes like well-written, heartfelt tales: “It really is a blessing that I ain’t got kids/But I got another sibling, so it’s like I got kids…I wasn’t handling my biz/Kinda like Nas when he dropped Illmatic/And MC Serch walked away with his masters.” The chemistry from the contrast in their personalities and their laid-back humor make a charming formula, but they only explore this occasionally. Thus, the slower moments of the LP get boosted forward by Ta’Raach’s productions. Those already familiar with the Detroit native know how his soulful backdrops and drums tend to bounce and roll off-cadence, but most of his choices for beats on The Piece Talks are classic boom-bap hip-hop, alternating between influences of mid-’90s DJ Premier (“Respect,” “Hello!?”) and Jay Dee in his Ummah days (“Chill,” “Ready”). That’s why the additions of almost rock-sounding tracks like “Buy Me Lunch” (which features the only appearance of singer and third C.R.A.C. member Noni Limar) and “Bullet Through Me” can only act as interruptions to an otherwise free-flowing LP. It makes for a slightly bumpy ride, but Ta’Raach and Blu have the mic skills to warrant your attention and respect. Let’s just hope they still get that check. – Cyril Cordor