(Ja Ja Cravworth Records/MGM)

The Australian hip hop scene is really flying of late, quality releases are regular and groups of all different styles are springing up. The latest of which to come across my desk is the debut EP from Bluejuice and something different it is.

Bluejuice would put on an excellent live show in my opinion, the organic live band sounds to their beats and hyped up style of delivery seem tailor made for the live arena. On The Good Luck Pig they have succeeded very well in the type of music they do and although not for me it will impress many.

The beats here are all solid, as previously mentioned they have a very ‘band’ style to them with live instruments being relied on rather than the more traditional samples and basic kick drums. For my own personal tastes this style leaves the songs a little cluttered at times as the beats battle with the vocals for attention but for the style of vocal delivery used they are probably the best option.

Lyrically Bluejuice are capable rather than outstanding, using a delivery in a similar vein to the Beastie Boys or one of the many rap rock hybrid acts. Lyrics are delivered quickly, enthusiastically and at a high volume. Again it just didn’t sit right for me but that is a personal taste issue.

Of the five tracks here the standout is Strivin, the tempo is slowed down, allowing the MC more time to shine and the lyrics to carry more of the track’s weight. That said however, if you like the first four tracks this will be your least favourite of the release.

Not a CD for everybody. There are enough good points for me to check out future releases to see the progress of Bluejuice and as they say variety is the spice of life, why should the oz hip hop landscape be any different.