Like a few other notable sophomore records from hip-hop acts (De La Soul Is Dead,The Low End Theory), Jurassic 5's Power in Numbers is darker than their first full-length; not as fresh andexuberant, but much more mature and intelligent. Granted, fans may not be happy to hear they've changed theformula so soon, or that the production doesn't play a starring role as it did onQuality Control. Instead,DJ Nu-MarkandCut Chemistplay it close to the vest, setting off the rhymes with a few well-placed beats and split-second samples (as well as the usual flute loops). Of course, allowing more room to hear four of the best rappers in hip-hop twisting tongues and telling tales has to be welcomed, and Jurassic 5 prove up to the added responsibility. Displaying a focus and intensity basically unseen in rap music during the past decade, the group practically bursts with message tracks; the skeletal first single "Freedom" findsChali 2naandAkildelving into the concept as it relates toeverything from Third World poverty to the American penitentiary system. "Remember His Name"and "Thin Line" (the latter withNelly Furtado) are dark tales of urban passions, and they're a step forward in that it's not just the raps that areintricate, but the storytelling also requires a few listens to understand. The group still has plenty of time for a few old-school anthems like "What'sGolden" and "A Day at the Races," withBig Daddy Kanebringing his alliterative ammo to the track. And the instrumental jam "Acetate Prophets" showsDJ Nu-MarkandCut Chemistrefining their skill for merging turntablism and excellent productions. Perhaps the best statement of Jurassic 5'spurpose comes from the group itself, on "If You Only Knew": "What we do is try to give you whatyou ain't used to."