CD Review: Yo! Majesty, Futuristically Speaking... Never Be Afraid (Domino)
Sep 23, 2008 6:00 PM
Tampa ladies hold nothing back
There's nowhere to hide when Shunda K and Jwl B bring their provocative hip-hop, electro and R&B to the party. They set things on edge right away with "Fucked Up," a shouted tale of love and violence that opens their debut. While the duo's lesbian sex rhymes got them noticed, and previously released bangers such as "Club Action" are included, the strength of the album comes in its diversity as they easily bounce between sweaty dancefloors and reflective moments. On "Never Be Afraid" Shunda K's uptempo flow wraps around the beat in a way that brings Andre 3000 to mind, and Jwl B shines on "Buy Love" where she appropriates the soulful confidence that once belonged to Lauryn Hill. Longtime collaborator Hard Feelings UK provide many of the beats, but Basement Jaxx was brought in to provide the hyper bounce behind the 152-bpm rumbling bass monster "Booty Klap." Variety reigns as the ladies balance serious and personal issues with moments of humor and unbridled run. This is a solid debut that lives up to the hype surrounding these uncompromising MCs.—Noah Levine [4.5 out of 5 stars]
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