Hailing from Australia, producer M-Phazes can most aptly be described as a known unknown. The name may not be familiar to many, but in the last five years he’s gained steady recognition for his work with artists such as Supastition, Heltah Skeltah and Skyzoo. His debut album, Good Gracious is a welcome coming out party.

M-Phazes’ name will be most associated with the massive production credits he has with underground heavyweights. But on Good Gracious, he features emcees that are all from his native Australia. Though different, it gives the album direction and a sense of cohesion. The production on Good Gracious is wall to wall incredible. Phaze’s has described getting his inspiration from legendary producers Pete Rock and J-Dilla. The influence shows, as Good Gracious features soulful melodies coupled with smacking drums.

“For What It’s Worth” (feat. Solo) jumps the album off with a soulful beat as Solo describes his and M-Phazes’ introduction to hip-hop and vice versa. As it moves on, the production on Good Gracious remains top-notch. Phazes even flips a James Bond sample on “The Facilitator”. Tracks such as “The Freak Show”, Blind Man and “Long Winding Road” are notable and I could really list nine or ten more due to the strength of the album. With that said, the number one track on Good Gracious is “Home” (feat Delta). The song possesses an incredible energy that gets the head nodding as soon as the beat drops.

The missteps on Good Gracious are minor. “Where’s Elvis” (feat Drapht) is out of place, especially as the second track of the album. The beat is dope, but the subject matter is more confusing than anything else. “The Club Song” is completely unnecessary and comes off as an extended skit that should have missed the album. But again, these are minor flaws in an otherwise amazing album. This release is high on my list of top albums of 2010. The production is excellent, scratches are crisp and the emcees featured deliver. Good Gracious indeed.