After a triumphant EP and impressive full-length debut, 2000’s Quality Control, Jurassic 5 has quickly dished out their second effort. Power in Numbers is a fine record in every way, although it leaves a number of pertinent questions about the future of the Los Angeles collective.

Where Quality Control existed as a breath of fresh air from all of the negativity and excessiveness currently circulating the hip hop world at the turn of the century, Power in Numbers simply exists. Gone is the sense of innovation, excitement and rejuvenation that once surrounded Jurassic 5. Cut Chemist’s beats are still magnificent, the production techniques are intact and the verbal diarrhea spewed by the four MC’s remains thoughtful and appealing; but it feels like J5 have possibly come to the end of the road.

Hip-hop is a tough place to remain stagnant and familiar, unlike the friendly confines of rock ‘n’ roll. It’s the form of music that’s most reliant on trends in language, fashion, culture and musical approach. Jurassic 5 seems to be content in making similar records. Though it is tempting to merge musical styles, J5 won’t be dabbling in rap-rock or R&B. Admirably, they are standing on their own 12 feet.

Though Power in Numbers is according to recipe, it’s an enjoyable listen. “One of Them” is smart commentary on the insidiousness of gangbanging, and “Acetate Prophets” takes elements from Ray Manzarek’s “Golden Scarab” and blends it seamlessly into a jubilant percussion jam. The lead single, “What’s Golden,” is typical J5 fare, much like “W.O.E. is Me,” in terms of lyrical artillery.

The group does branch out here with a couple of songs about their ladies. Throbbing, constant beats still remain, but the tender lyrics of “Thin Line” can make a grown man cry. Romantic rap. Who knew?

In the end, Power in Numbers is a worthy effort. You’re left with a feeling of relief, satisfied that one of the only rap outfits you can count on has come through at least one more time. Enjoyable, but by no means essential, let’s hope that Power in Numbers and the Jurassic 5 are received well enough to secure their legacy as one of the most reliable acts in hip-hop.