CD Review: Wyclef Jean, Carnival II: Memoirs of an Immigrant

Jan 22, 2008 6:21 PM Max Herman (Writer)

 

As much as some folks dismiss Wyclef for scoring chart-topping hits like "Hips Don't Lie," this MC/producer/guitarist has long strived to take hip-hop beyond formulaic methods. With Carnival II, Clef continues his quest of collaborating with artists from as many genres and cultures possible, creating an ambitious global medley of grooves. The best example of Clef's wide-reaching tendencies is heard on the bouncy, bhangra beat–inspired track "Hollywood Meets Bollywood (Immigration)." Here, Clef combines the strings of a full orchestra with an old Egyptian sample and the cautionary raps of Chamillionaire, resulting in a cross-continental sure shot. Conversely, getting aid from hip-hop's most sought-after guest stars Akon and Lil' Wayne on the single "Sweetest Girl (Dollar Bill)" was hardly risky. Yet the reggae-pop vibe and underlying message on this song are effortlessly engrossing. Of course, Clef can't score hits on every try, as the political, rock-tinged "Riot" with Serj Tankian and his dedication to the late Tejano singer, "Selena," just sound awkward. To Wyclef's credit, though, not once do his attempts come off as insincere.

 

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