AMG Review of Present [Clean]

David Jeffries
All Music Guide

More a spin-off soundtrack to a DVD than an essential live release, The Roots Present is exciting in parts but fails to build the winning momentum The Roots Come Alive did. Of course this is a revue of artists involved with the Roots' Okayplayer.com label/promotion firm, so it's no big surprise the vibes are varied. Every track by the Roots and Mobb Deep is worth hearing, but the usually hot Young Gunz only go one for two, "Friday Night" being the keeper. Skillz's excellent, Cosby-on-acid commentary, "2003 Wrap Up," is another highlight, as is the "everyone on-stage!" "Clones," but choppy segues between tracks and a no-flow track order makes this one for the Roots faithful, not newcomers. [Present was also made available in a clean version, with all explicit material removed.]