I’ve been interested in Ephryme ever since hearing his debut single “Punklezremap” last year, so coming across the rapper’s latest single piqued my interest.  “Shomer Salaam” is a plea for tolerance, both spiritual and otherwise, rapped over a backdrop that meshes vintage hip-hop beats with Middle Eastern music loops.  “My Mouth Is A House of Prayer” is a rapid fire rap that takes the pan cultural fusion further as faster looped beats bring it on home.  Ephryme’s music comes from a different universe than the crunk beats and synthesized loops that  makes up way too damn much of today’s rap music.  While some rap fans may be turned off by this, it’s a good part of what makes this single special and can appeal to listeners who don’t normally listen to a lot of current rap.  Listen and make up your own mind.  (BOONE)

(K Records Box 7154. Olympia, WA 98507.  krecsdotcom)