A well-established rhyme slinger from Boston, (Dorchester, to be exact), Akrobatik is blessed with a strong voice, sharp lyricism, and concise flow, but refuses to dumb it down enough to become more of a mainstream rap star. Luckily for hardcore hip-hop fans, he maintains a serious work ethic, continuing to churn out quality material even if radio program managers pay little notice. After establishing himself with an EP and assortment of dope singles throughout the turn of the millennium, he finally dropped Balance in 2003. Produced by longtime homie DJ Fakts One (one-third of the Perceptionists with Ak and Mr. Lif), Diamond D, Da Beatminerz, Edan, and DJ Revolution, among others, the album is a great jump-off point for anyone just getting into Akrobatik, with its satisfying mix of neck-bending beats and intelligent rhyme schemes. "Remind My Soul" tackles ignorance and self-hatred, "Wreck Dem" and "Always Bet On Ak" are straight-up bravado anthems, and the seductive "Woman II" is a classic romantic rap epic built on an elastic bass groove and subtle Tribe Called Quest sample. A rock- solid record from an artist who deserves far more shine.