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"Break Up To Make Up," the 1973
hit from the Stylistics could be the theme song for many of today's
groups. It seems as though groups come out and achieve a modicum
of success which goes to their heads. Once the success is realized,
for some reason they get the idea they could do even better as
solo artists. When the reality sets in that they the sum is greater
than the individual parts, the reunion is eminent. "Digital
Underground" fits the category and has managed to regenerate
themselves for their new CD, "Who Got The Gravy?" Not
much has changed by way of the bizarre alter egos of Shock G/Humpty
Hump and the unique sense of style and humor. And that unique
"Digital Underground" sound, that's easily distinguished,
is in effect.
With the assistance of KRS-One, Biz Markie
and Big Pun, Digital makes its re- entry a worthy assemblage.
Although not a totally original concept, the pairing of Biz Markie
and Humpty Hump, (two of raps most comical and bizarre personas)
works well, with the two trading snaps over the sparse instrumentation
of "Odd Couple." Hip-hops heaviest heavy weight, Big
Pun, squads up with Shock-G, Styles and Whateva for "The
Mission," a flava filled track ready for bumpin' in the
Jeeps. "Blind Mice" is "Digital Underground"
in true form, mixing smooth harmonies with an equally pleasing
rap that's directed at some of societies ills; and its all done
over a smooth groove. The best was saved for last, starting with
the highly infectious groove of "Man's Girl." "If
you can't take me home with you, then a lap dance will have to
do." Now that's a line more than a few of the fellas will
definitely be feelin' in the strip clubs!
"In The Rain," from the Dramatics
(1972) is the base for "April Showers," a down-tempo
track featuring the understated lyrical delivery of Mystik, Shock
and Money B, and the Dramatics should be honored by the skillful
re-working. The mighty KRS-One graces the final track, "Cyber
Teeth Tigers." Again, D.U. dusts off an oldie-but-goodie,
this time they sample "Smiling Faces Sometimes" (originally
done by Undisputed Truth in 1971) and Digital puts their spin
on it, making this a potential club hit, but it leaves me asking
the question "Who told KRS-One he could sing?" |
