Search - Digital Underground :: Future Rhythm

Step Outside Of The Box {4.5 Stars}

Norfeest | Washington DC USA | 09/07/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Some will say this is hip hop, but I think this kind of music borrows from too many genres (funk, hip hop, r&b, etc...) to fit into one box. This is what I would call a "fan album" and it may alienate the pop fans that fell in love with smash hits like "Humpty Dance", "Doowutchyalike" or "Kiss You Back". This album is a lot more stripped down and focused. There are plenty of bouncy, feel good tracks, but they're done in a more mellow, laid back way than their previous stuff. And even though this LP came out in '96, it still sounds fresh 10 years later.



As far as flaws, there are a few snoozers due the abundance of laid back cuts. The title track (Future Rhythm) is mellow and funky, but the lack of direction may have your head nodding -- as you fall asleep. The same could be said for "Hokis Pokis (A Classic Case)" and "Hella Bump". The rest of the album flows pretty well after you get past these snoozers.



Future Rhythm may be the least popular of the DU albums, but it's probably the most cohesive album in their catalogue and that makes for a real treat for their hardcore audience. If you're on the fence when it comes to DU, then you may want to pass on this and check for their earlier releases -- the funk may be too strong for you. If you're a fan this album should quickly be added to the collection. Two thumbs up.



Standout Tracks: Midnite Snack, Food Fight feat. Del The Funkee Homosapien, Oregano Flow [Gumbo Soup Mix], Glooty-Us-Mazimus (My Favorite), Want It All, Fool Get A Clue feat. The Black Spooks, We Got More feat. The Luniz, and Oregano Flow [Hot Sauce Mix], Walk Real Kool"