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(Frozen Food Section/Shogun)
Whimsy by title, slightly whimsical in its arrangement - this debut album from Serengeti proves that he is a quality lyricist, unfortunately left looking for a hot beat. Whimsy in part is defined as a odd or fanciful idea, some of the musical concepts throughout Noodle Arm Whimsy are exactly that. The sounds here scream old school for the majority as video game inspired soundtracks are woven around the impressive lyrical arsenal that Serengeti possesses.
First to the good points, they are headed by Serengeti’s mic control, his delivery and subject matter are quite similar to underground heavyweight Sage Francis, and if Sage is a favourite of yours this is worth having for sure. Recorded over two years in the summertime, apparently to keep the positive vibe alive, the subject matter for the most is quite light. Sure there is the odd political reference or conscious statement ala Sage but generally the tempo is kept up, perhaps best punctuated by a seemingly never ending list of recreational drug references. Generally guests are kept to a minimum, none are well known probably outside of Serengeti’s native Chicago yet all deliver a quality spot when required.
Now to the not so good - to my ears the beats here are garbage. They are stripped back basic sounds and weird electronic samples that just don’t have the depth to compete with the amazing work being done worldwide. Frankly some of them sound like they were produced by kids messing around in their bedrooms which upon reading the press release I discovered a couple were. The 11 year old cousin of Serengeti! Extra Credit is responsible for two tracks here, and they are brilliant for an 11 year old, but there is a reason most 11 year olds don’t release music…
If you are a fan of hot lyrics and strange lyrical concepts, and to an extent are prepared to sacrifice beat quality this release is well worth your hard earned. If, like me, you prefer depth to your production don’t write him off totally but perhaps wait for future releases from the talented MC known as Serengeti.
