CD Reviews: David Dallas

Further enhancing his status as our premier MC, the third album from David Dallas wisely steers clear of mass appeal, opting instead for a dense sonic palette which buttresses his laid-back flow and scattershot pop culture references.

Gritty soundscapes courtesy of longtime collaborators Fire and Ice lend menace to the likes of Local Celeb and standout Runnin' whose dusty ol' blues sample stalks D Dot's dextrous wordplay.

Likewise, the nostalgic Follow and Southside's parochial chest-thumping showcase a poetic MC with natural vitality and charisma.

• David Dallas. Falling into Place. Dawn Raid.

• 4 stars out of 5

Single download: Runnin'
For those who like: Wu-Tang Clan, Roots Manuva

- John Hayden.