Jurassic-5 have always maintained a certain reserve in their music...until now. Although their latest album, "Feedback," seems to only loosely borrow from older J-5, their experimentation with pop has resulted in a delightful mutation.
The latest Gorillaz album "Demon Days" and Fiona Apple's "Extraordinary Machine" are two examples of how pop can be complementary to an artist's technique. Similarly, J-5 has managed to preserve their traditional stylistics while tactfully morphing their overall sound.
These monarchs of hip-hop have predictably adorned their hit "Work It Out" with a classy beat and a liquid rhythm, but who would have thought they would recruit Dave Matthews to lend a helping hand? Trendy surprises like this are also lurking in tracks like "Radio," "Brown Girl" and "Baby Please."
Their new twist may be disorienting to old fans, but they have still incorporated some of the old basics including synchronized shouting, segue skits, turntables and alliteration. Chali 2na, Akil, Zaakir, and Mark 7even still play hot potato with the microphone and still have the token song about how limber they've been keeping their verbal gymnastics.
When it comes down to brass tacks, J-5 can still throw a flow, with or without Mr. Matthews.
"Gotta Understand" makes this album feel comfortable again. They mix it up with some funk while staying true to the soul of hip-hop. Their unforgettable lyrical incantations make songs like "Baby Please" forgivable, even though it may resemble Sisqo's "Thong Song."
While paying close attention, listeners may notice how many celebrities slip into the mixing of DJ Nu-Mark. "Get it Together" is doctored with a little bit of Motown, they sample Marvin Gaye's "That's the Way Love Is" and proceed to blow minds. "Get it Together" is ultimately the track with the most integrity. A piano trickles through a pumping bass line and is topped off with that sweet Motown howl.
Feedback was released July 25 and made number 15 on the Billboard 200 chart. J-5 has been producing highly recommendable sounds since '93 and praise Allah it still shows. They're playing at the Town Ballroom on Nov. 12 - it might be your last opportunity to see J-5 before they retire.
