Monday, April 28, 2008

CD Review: P.P.T.’s Denglish

By Ovidio Hinojosa

PPT is not satisfied with the current state of rap, and that sentiment cannot be any louder than on their newest release, Denglish. The Dallas based trio seems obsessed with tearing down the confines of their genre while still staying true to the fun and excitement of it.

Hello Retro

While the lyrics are far from literary, the members’ delivery of them is fluid and consistent. Where PPT really shines, however, is group’s instrumental work. They take slightly from other styles, creating a sonic collage of funk, rock, pop, electronica, and acoustic instrumentation, turning this group into a sort of parallel universe Gorillaz, only with more emphasis on rapping. The opening track, the De La Soul-esque “Masterbook Theatre,” meshes majestic strings with a p-funk bass line with little negative repercussion. “Jubilee (Til the Sunlight)” lures the listener to the dance floor with a classic funk guitar riff acting as the main driving force.

Unfortunately, the experimentation that keeps the group fresh also adds unwanted silliness at times. “Love Crimes” features lush, oceanic synth chords reminiscent of New Order, however the lyrics delivered in a faux English accent make the song grating after a while. “American Weirdo” lives up to its name, as its sparse folk guitar seems to grind against the rap verses.

Despite these minor flaws, it is impossible to deny that this album is one of the freshest, innovative, and fun releases of the year.

This review was submitted by a member of the Pegasus News community.

Related stories

• Pegasus News Week in View: Mayday Edition (May 1, 2008)

See more stories in:

• Arts > Popular Music > Alternative / Indie
• Arts > Popular Music > Rap / Hip-Hop