Freestyle Greatest Beats: The Complete Collection, Vol. 5

Freestyle Greatest Beats: The Complete Collection, Vol. 5

This is another disc in the 10-volume history of the music known as freestyle or "Latin hip-hop." The entire collection forms a comprehensive history, and every disc has its merits. Volume 5 is set apart first and foremost by "Dreamboy/Dreamgirl," an ode performed by Cynthia and Johnny O that raises romantic passion and devotion to a nearly religious pitch. At the opposite end of the spectrum, but just as memorable, is Sa-Fire's "Love Is on Her Mind," the bitchiest catfight anthem this side of Vanity 6's "If a Girl Answers (Don't Hang Up)." As a special bonus, the set is kicked off with George Lamond's massive "Bad of the Heart." <i>--John Sanchez</i>