Toronto's Choclair is a rare species in his native Canada, as he's the only hip-hop artist from that country to sign a major-label recording contract. However, with that honor comes accountability, as his debut will be the definitive litmus test for the unproven marketability of Canadian hip-hop. With that responsibility in mind, Choclair spreads the wealth graciously, using his debut not only to display his own lyrical credentials, but to showcase the wealth of untapped talent our neighbors to the north have to offer. Possessing an undeniable presence and silky-smooth delivery, Choclair blisters the Saukrates-produced "Flagrant," but he's more incisive when matched with Kardinal Offishal on "Lets Ride" or with Guru on "Bare Witness." It's been over a decade since Canada has had a notable figure in the hip-hop industry (Maestro Fresh Wes), but Choclair's debut may open the door to a Canadian offensive. ~ Matt Conaway, All Music Guide
Ice Cold is the debut album of Canadian rapperChoclair, released November 2, 1999 in Canada and March 14, 2000 in the United States. Released on Virgin/Priority Records, it is notable for being the first Canadian hip hop album released internationally since 1991.[1][2] The album's early success was driven by the first single, "Let's Ride", produced by Kardinal Offishall. The second single, "Rubbin'", features Saukrates.
In Canada, the album debuted at #10 on the Canadian Albums Chart and went gold in 35 days, eventually selling over 63,000 copies.[3][4]Allmusic gave the album 4 out of 5 stars, noting that Choclair used it "not only to display his own lyrical credentials, but to showcase the wealth of untapped talent our neighbors to the north have to offer."[5] It won the award for Best Rap Recording at the 2000 Juno Awards.
