Deadverse Massive is a group of sorts headed by the duo of Dalek and Oktopus, who also make up the group Dalek. This compilation or group album acts as a reminder of some of their cohorts as well as a good introduction as to what they have been up to since their last album. Those familiar with the group know of their pedigree in the underground of rap music as well as many other types. With Oktopus' producer spot on the last Paint It Black LP and their placement on the Ipecac Recoords roster they have made a name for themselves well outside of hip hop convention. This bodes well for the group as their prior projects fall well outside of the norm.
On this project the group tend more towards convention with the production leaning more towards a general classic east coast vibe in the production. While this may be somewhat disappointing to fans expecting the usually inventive noise laced production of Dalek it gives further insight into his abilities. Everything remains as crisp as one could hope for the drums themselves take center stage through most of the songs. This choice helps the lyrics take a stronger place in the mix and keep up forward momentum within the record.
MC Dalek takes a back seat throughout the record allowing his friends who aren't as well known take a shot at the spotlight. While this may be risky in most situations in which big name rappers let their hangers on try to pick up the slack (and fail beyond belief). In this scenario it does wonders as it allows one to hear some different rhyme styles on each track. While there are more than a few contributors there are two that certainly stick out. While it may be partially due to having more appearances both Gym Brown and Oddatee make the most of every second on their tracks. Oddatee would probably be the better known of the two having released an LP and EP a few years ago. What can be said for certain is that Gym Brown makes a case for himself being the fiercest new rhymer on this record. Coming off with a strong attitude and interesting but still hood based rhymes his style more than suits the production. By the time the final track "It's Over" comes on the fact that it is the only Dalek solo track on this makes it merely icing on the cake, a great bookend to a strong album.
Overall this is a great record. Rather than acting like an ordinary compilation it presents itself as something of a coming out party for Dalek and Oktopus' friends. Fortunately their friends are all pretty gifted and don't let the opportunity go to waste. The only down side to me would be it makes me want a new Dalek record right away. Even with that it makes a case for one to pay close attention to whatever the two have in the cards for the future.
