The Kickdrums – Just A Game EP review
I was introduced to The Kickdrums a short while back through a hip hop mixtape they produced titled ‘Smash The System’, so when their debut release ‘Just A Game’ was sent out for review I jumped at the opportunity. I generally try to keep my Tuesday post related to hip hop news and reviews and thought this week would be no different, but let’s just say these boys have a lot more up their sleeve than straight hip hop production.
I have to admit I was a little thrown back, being that I fully expected something very different than what hit my ears. Almost like when you eat something that you expect to taste one way, but then has a totally opposite flavour… Your brain takes a second to really comprehend what you’re experiencing. I had to skip back to the beginning, knowing I was not going to be treated to typical hip hop production. As I pressed play on my iPod for a second time I re-entered, this time with no presumptions.
‘Impatient (Slow Down)’ opens this album with hard piano stabs alternating with crunchy guitar and crashing drum hits, quickly dropping off into a piano melody accompanied by soft vocals…. Then it hits, a drum line with the classic 4/4 elements of hip hop. This seems to be a recurring theme throughout this album, a blending of varied styles.
There’s definite influential elements that are present, while not a straight reflection of other bands. ‘Just A Game’ and ‘Tell Me Stories’ brings sounds reminiscent of some of the more sung Gorillaz tracks, while ‘Things Work Out’ sort of reminds me of Her Space Holiday and ‘Personal Calamity’ has a feel of Radiohead to it. Although they resemble certain bands, they use those influences in combination with their own personality in order to help to keep their sound unique.
Beautiful piano riffs and orchestrated strings seem to be a common theme and how they mesh with the vocals, I can’t deny that it works on every level. ‘Mental Traveler’ takes a twist and provides instruments such as organ and horns with a feel that could almost be taken straight out of an old James Bond movie, sexy with a hint of suspenseful adventure attached.
I’m so glad I gave this a listen with a clear mind and I’ve realized, once again, you can’t judge an artist by their past work. The Kickdrums again display a wide array of talent and creativity, masters of production in whatever genre they attempt.
Oh and I almost forgot…. The album is available for free download at http://onsmash.com/justagame. Who doesn’t love free music? Especially when it’s this good.
The Kickdrums – Just A Game
The Kickdrums – Things Work Out
The Kickdrums – Personal Calamity
Tags: EP
Nice pick… I like it…