Fiend’s known to play it cool, lay back and spit sleepy-eyed, smoke-filled raps. But as “The Amazing Race” shows, he can also bring plenty of energy when the situation calls for it. The track’s rocking beat demands some fire – listen to that insistent, crashing cymbal and the swelling, rollicking chorus behind him – and the man also known as International Jones is more than happy to supply it. Honestly, he raps with abandon, voice rising and falling as each line comes roaring out. There’s no need for a hook, or any other kind of messing around. Fiend just comes with it, sings a little duet with LaTangela Fay, and lets the horns take it home.

This is off Fiend’s Cool Is In Session, which is set to drop on Thursday. Somewhat unbelievably, it’ll be his fourth of 2011. I don’t know what he and Spitta do on those jet planes, but whatever it is, it leads to a whole lot of music.

Fiend Feat. LaTangela Fay – “The Amazing Race”

Salute: DGB