Search - Black Eyed Peas :: Bridging the Gap

Another good one.

Kyle Bronson | Detroit Michigan US | 01/31/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"First let me say that I only gave this album 4 stars instead o 5 because I'm a hip hop snob. If it isn't very close to heaven then I won't be giving away 5 stars yet I was still close in this case. This album is one of a recent influx of hip hop albums that prove in the face of pop culture that the art of hip hop is not dead. However I warn you, do not watch MTV or BET hoping to see a Black Eyed Peas song... you won't find it and you'll once again revert into thinking that rap is dead. This CD is good... not a must have but definately a must listen. I had to have it and I like it's diversity. Features Wyclef (who is good on the album despite his recent abomination with THE ROCK), Macy Gray, Les Nubian & Mos Def, and De La Soul and others. Very few traks that aren't at least good and several that earn the rank of excellent (eg.- weekends; hot; gogo; rap song). If you like sounds like the roots, common, mos def, then just buy it. If you tend to like harder rap then give it a listen before you buy. All around, it's excellent rap/ hip hop."

Ledgend in th Making

gaz-l | Sacramento | 06/01/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"After their somewhat underground debut ?Behind the Front,? the Black Eyed Peas return for their sophomore set. Upon the first time listening to this album, I was completely shocked. Gone was the B-Boy, old-school sound and in was a newer, leaner, more modern soul sound. Have the Peas soled out after only one album? Not on your life! Although one might think so after the first two cuts the Primo produced BEP Empire, and Weekends, (which samples ?Lookout Weekend? and ?Family Affair?). But this is where their talent is most evident. While many rappers may just be happy to get a Primo track and a sample, the Peas use this opportunity to expand their palette. They actually steal the show from DJ Premier with their energetic and enthusiastic style. The next four song would are not only danceable, but will satisfy any true fans of the Peas. The production of Will.I.Am. is masterful, and unique, as he blends hip-hop, soul, jazz and old-school funk into an eclectic mix that will sooth the ears of even the most reluctant fans of rap. While they may not hook you in on first listen (except for Hot) They grow on you almost to the point of ridiculousness. Truly not your flavor of the month music. Other highlights include Release (perfect if your stressed), and Go-Go. But the defining track of the album and the group is On My Own. BEP takes a break from the fun to talk about hip-hop and life now can the Peas rap? No. Are their lyrics creative no? Not always. But u have to give them props because they instead of indulging in topics which have no relevance to most (murder, drugs, and guns) they address real-life problems: stress, being in the world, and having fun. And they do it without sounding preachy or self-righteous. Most rappers now won?t do that, as they choose to convince us how real their lifestyles are, even though they?re usually fake. I?m sorry to say as good as they are, I feel that BEP will probably only get their respect long after they retire. ?Legends in hindsight? so to speak. With all the gloss in rap now, it?s easy to overlook them. But as long as BEP keeps making music like this, they will get a place next to the Roots, Tribe and Outkast as one of the great groups in Hip-Hop history."

The Other Side of West Coast Hip Hop

Sean C. | 04/21/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Who said no real hip hop comes out of L.A.? These three cats truly represent the diversity of west coast hip hop. For the sake of these guys I wish they would have been marketed better. Their music is flawless, socially consciuos, and just all together tight! When I heard thier first record "Behind the Front" I was impressed and when I heard "Bridging the Gap" I was blown away. If your a fan of truly good music and lyrics with content you have to check these guys out."