Over the last few years, Lawrence, MA native Statik Selektah has successfully built himself as a major player in East Coast Hip-Hop. His latest project, 100 Proof: The Hangover brings together top MCs from all coasts to produce an appetizing sampler of Hip-Hop tracks.

Most DJ/producers helming a project are at the mercy of his rappers to carry their weight, and Selektah is no exception. Evidently, he knows the right people, as Selektah showcases a mix of seasoned vets and up-and-comers. Most rappers bring their B+ game, but Royce Da 5’9’’, Talib Kweli and Rapper Big Pooh going at 85% is still better than your favorite local rapper. Royce still manages to steal the show on the Termanology collaboration “Come Around” with his usual offensive audacity: “Me and Hip-Hop go together like swastkand Nazi.” Bun B and Wale get whimsical and idealistic on opener “So Close, So Far,” meshing well with the breezy jazz horns of the beat. And the Kweli/Styles P. collaboration “The Thrill Is Gone,” recalls a lost mid-90s gem—a simple piano beat with Styles in particular spitting knowledge about the ills of the rap game.

As star of the show, Selektah plays the role of facilitator DJ particularly well. As producer, he puts the MCs in positions to succeed, providing rappers with beats that bring out their strengths. Hardcore rappers like Lil’ Fame get slamtastic beats perfect for spitting some thuggery (“Critically Acclaimed”) while West Coast collaborators Evidence, Fashawn and Kali get laid back Cali stylings for their ode to home “The Coast.” The tracks move seamlessly from one to the other and the 15 tracks move quickly with no losses of momentum.

At the same time, Selektah’s not breaking any new ground. His sound is derivative—there’s nothing here production wise that hasn’t been duplicated many times over. He relies more on surrounding himself with good talent as opposed to artistic ingenuity or sonic innovation. Ultimately, there’s nothing wrong with this approach, it just limits the heights the album can reach.

Still, as DJ projects go, Statik Selektah’s 100 Proof: The Hangover can be considered a success, effectively showcasing the talents of the man and his collaborators. If you’re looking for some solid Hip-Hop to keep your buzz going strong, go straight for the 100 Proof.