Chris MC and Reality capitalize on the setup themselves, with its satirical opening featuring Loud Mouth Mark and the Professor. These Pointdexter commentaries are scattered between tracks on“Fresh Digress,” a bright spot always, and very much indicative of the album’s general tone: fun. Fresh Digress don’t fit our expectations of the Beatmart stable, choosing to have, and provide, a good time rather than attempt to offer up an alternative to street-oriented hip-hop. Think early Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince. Which is not to say they’re not serving up fresh beats, catchy hooks, and message-focused lyrics. They’re just determined to have fun in the process; so a strong party feel prevails throughout "Fresh Digress."
“Ready or Not” gets the party started with its funky guitar riffs and playful mutual dissing. “Smoke + Fiya” offers up straightforward dating advice with an injection of humor to make the medicine go down: “Looks delicious but it stings like a scalpel/ Snow White, don’t eat that apple!” “Princess” also offers a strong positive message, but their rhymes aren’t as fresh as they could be. “Right Now” opens with robust beats and great percussion keeps a sizzle going through the whole track. I enjoyed the ‘70s R&B groove of the encouraging “I Know,” reminding us of the steadfast love of God. Check out the twinkly ‘80s pop feel of “Freedom,” and don’t miss that last appearance of the Professor.
Overall, I think there is an audience for Fresh Digress, and it’s a very different one than the one served by other Beatmart artists. But hey, that’s why they make vanilla and chocolate, right? Have yourself some fun with Fresh Digress, no apologies.
