Downinside are a band that bring the care-free vibe back to the scene, not only by sound but by general feel and lyrics, the CD is peppered with rapid fire flows from the two lyricist's Shank and Kidd-B as well as back up vocals by the rest of the band. Something that really rises to the surface on the album is the playful lyrics and overall feel of a party vibe, the band doesn't shoot for the deep wrenching lyrics and vocal tones that really bring the emotion out as most bands do these day's and honestly they don't need to. This CD incites a more mellowed out buddha blessed vibe reminiscent of old Phunkjunkeez, 311 or Zebrahead musically and sometimes lyrically. The difference that sets this band apart from those mentioned above though is the incorporation of samples and loops, they really tighten up and add to the CD’s smothering groove. It's like a constant battering of unrelenting upbeat vocals brewing up over marksmanship precise funk tainted rhythm’s and clockwork like drum beats. The CD definitely impresses but misses out a bit on variation from song to song, cuts like "Who Got Da Groove" stand out while others don't differentiate themselves as much. All in all though that is just being picky, the CD is a solid debut from a band who definitely has the talent and basic's down to take them to the top, just add a little bit more refining of the song structure's to give each song a distinct feel and the band will be unstoppable.
(4.5 / 5)