Search - Young Black Teenager :: Young Black Teenagers

Aaron S. from VANCOUVER, WA
Reviewed on 1/22/2011...

A Bomb Squad produced totally awesome cd. Similar in sound to Son of Bazerk's album. The Bomb Squad were at the very top of their game with this one. Kamron, Firstborn, ATA and Tommy Never do have skills too. I don't know why (other than lazy minded journalistic prejudice) that this one didn't blow up large. Again the production is so innovative it really deserves more attention than it initially received. Seek it out yo.

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B-MAN | Earth, occasionally. Until I get bored. | 10/21/2004

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I'm cool being the first one to review this album, but I'm a little surprised that there aren't any. No artwork sample or sound samples either. Almost like it was buried. The band caused a lot of controversy because of their name "Young Black Teenagers" and the fact that none of them were. The group was composed of 5 young men, four white and one puerto rican, so many thought the group was mocking hip hop when in fact it was the direct opposite. The group consisted of MCs: Kamron, First Born, ATA & Tommy Never with DJ Skribble. One listen to the album and it's obvious they have skills and that it's no joke. Couple that with backing of Public Enemy and the album being produced by P.E. producers, the Bomb Squad, and you have an album noteworthy to say the least. I admit the name concept may have been too strong for some to deal with, which is maybe one of the reasons why they didn't last or get recognition near the likes of Beastie Boys, 3rd Bass, or House of Pain. The big reason they're remembered is based on the name they chose, which is too bad because they turn in skillfull performances here. Some actually listened to the album and gave it a chance which I recommend you do as well (if you can get a copy). The original artwork concept was taken from the Beatles album (With the Beatles) where all members are in black sweaters against a black background so emphasis is on the faces. KISS did something similar with their debut album, but the YBT cover is basically a direct immitation. This album came out when I had just turned 15 and I was getting my rap recommendations via "Yo MTV Raps!". That was back when MTV was still playing music so you know it's been a few years. I can't remember whether I saw them on that show first or just picked up the tape on a whim, but I was very surprised by it. I recognized the producer credits from my Public Enemy albums, which I was captivated by at the time (actually I still am). I recommend tracking this album down. Don't dismiss it, without giving it at least one complete listen. YBT released one more album which contained their most successful hit "Tap the Bottle", but for me this album was their moment and a little too slept on in my opinion."