Oakland, CA (December 1, 2008) – At this crucial point in history, America finds itself at a crossroads. The concerns are many, and by now, the questions should be familiar: Who’s gonna save the economy? Who’s gonna save our jobs? Who’s gonna save hip-hop?

The first two questions are perhaps best left to politicians, pundits, and prognosticators. As for the third, multi-talented Oakland-based artist Kev Choice makes a bid to rescue the troubled yet resilient genre from itself with The Bailout. Representing his official introduction as a solo artist, Choice’s concept-driven mixtape showcases his versatility not only as an emcee and musician, but also as composer, arranger, and producer. The holder of a master’s degree in music, Choice’s background in jazz and classical blends fluidly with contemporary funk, R&B and rap, resulting in a stylistic tour-de-force.

With over 76 minutes of music, The Bailout’s 21 tracks—produced by Choice, with cuts by DJ D-Sharp—address many of the topically relevant themes affecting today’s society from a hip-hop perspective, engaging the listener’s consciousness while still providing plenty of entertainment value.

From sampling news reports reflecting the current state of economic affairs to referencing Obama’s statements about hip-hop culture (As the President-elect has remarked, hip-hop is “not just a mirror of what is, it should also be a reflection of what can be”) to dropping his own inspirational verses (“I approach the mic like I’m the only hope/ the missing antidote”), and commenting about the world we live in, Choice proves the message is still evident in the medium. On the title track, he bluntly states: "The government’s tripping/ 700 billion for big business while we living amongst starving children?"

In addition to Choice solo cuts like “Bay Diamonds”—a tribute to the Bay Area’s musical talent and cultural diversity—and “Change Gon’ Come (Obama’s Song)”—a reworking of Sam Cooke’s Civil Rights-era classic dedicated to Obama’s historic candidacy—The Bailout features guest appearances from hip-hop luminaries Saafir & Silk-E (“Illustrious”), Zumbi of Zion-I (“Back Home”), Aristotle (“This Your Song” and “Hustles, Tricks, and Game”), MacArthur (“I, Baby” and Red & Blue Lights”), and Choice’s little brother, Tony Vic (“If You Don’t Know”). Meanwhile, “Can’t Look Back” boasts a distinctly “live” feel courtesy of guitarist B’Nai Rebelfront, drummer Brian Collier, and bassist Dewey Tucker.

With so much at stake for 2008 and beyond, Choice offers the “Kevolutionary” change we need -- this is hip-hop we can believe in. Consider The Bailout a cultural stimulus package, a musical mandate which raises fists and spirits at a time we need it most.