| M-Flo "Astromantic" Well it�fs time to dance everyone because M-Flo(DJ Taku and Verbal) have just released their latest star studded album featuring J-pop stars like Crystal Kay, Chemistry, Double and others. This album has been greatly anticipated because it is their first all original album without vocalist LISA, who went solo last year. Granted many of the tracks on this new CD were released as singles throughout this year and last, but the sound is still quite impressive. Overall this album, just like its�f predecessors, is a trip for the music senses. From the jazzy tones of �gVanessa " with Bloodest Sax to the rap ballad/techno beats of �gWay U Move�h with Dragon Ash. Each track manages to have its�f own flavor and style, while still giving a sense of overall cohesion. In other words, you are not overwhelmed with eclecticism, but instead given a natural anticipation for what�fs coming next. And be sure to keep a look out for DJ Taku on the mic and rhyming. I think you�fll be impressed. The only complaint I have is that M-Flo�fs rapper, Verbal, seems to be all over the album. Please don�ft get me wrong. I think Verbal is talented, knows how to rhyme (better than some current US rap stars), and has great mic presence. However, there can be too much of a good thing. There are some tracks where his presence is not really necessary. For example the track �gLife is Beautiful�h featuring Double on vocals and jazz flugelhorn player TOKU. DJ Taku�fs fresh melody Double�fs vocals and the talented TOKU are more than enough, but throughout the song you constantly hear Verbal�fs voice in the background saying �gyea, yea�h or �gyou know what I�fm saying?�h and the now classic �guh-huh, uh-huh�h. Needless to say, this becomes more of a distraction rather than adding to a song. Hopefully the next album will tone this kind of thing down and focus less on the be-bopping and more on the music. That being said, this is still a must add for a DJ�fs playlist as well as a great album to listen to. Especially, if you are looking for a break from the standard J-pop fare. Buy and enjoy! |
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