4everevolution Big Dada****

With every album, Rodney Smith moves things onwards and upwards. Others may receive the commercial nods (Dizzee Rascal) and newer guns may sweep the critical plaudits (Ghostpoet, Dels), but Smith continues to rhyme his way around and beyond most others in the game with his distinctive rumble. He's always had an appreciation for a rich sonic palette (witness his two full-length dub reworkings, Dub Come Save Meand Duppy Writer), and 4everevolutionis equally well-prepped with nods to fully rounded pop ( Watch Me Dance, his collaboration with Toddla T), funky disco basslines ( First Growth), carnival shenanigans ( Go Champ) and, of course, some compelling dub thumps ( Wha' Mek). Throughout, it's Smith's superb observations and smart wordflows that keep 4everevolutionswinging throughout its wide-ranging 17 tracks. Time for Roots Manuva to reap his just rewards. See rootsmanuva.co.uk

Download tracks: Watch Me Dance, First Growth, Go Champ