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Flatbush Zombies: Better Off Dead (MIXTAPE)

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“I am redesigning the mind of the masses”

Begins the newest project from the hardcore rap collective Flatbush Zombies, Better Off Dead. This over-the-top affirmation sums up the entire mixtape; Flatbush Zombies are back with a hunger to shock and impress the rap community.

As suggested by the mixtape’s title, the piece of work is dirty, raunchy, and just plain loud. Erick Ark Elliot, the producer, opted out of using jazz and R&B as the mainstay samples of this record. Instead the record is filled with orchestral and opera strings, as well as many other effects that one would more associate with an epic movie like 300. The combination of these elements along with simple kick and snare beats create an atmosphere that can only be described as baroque. Each tracks’ density reminds me of the cramped and claustrophobic pieces of art of Brueghel Rubens.

This environment is even more heightened by the wondrous delivery that each emcee gives on the record. Often times hardcore rap is easy to execute without true lyricism, but the trio here manages to showcase both their mettle and their lyricism. It’s important to note that Flatbush Zombies are still part of the Beast Coast scene. They manage to keep the qualities that make Beast Coast what it is. Furthermore, the high-energy delivery still maintains the tinge of introspection that other colleagues (eg Joey Bada$$) are known for.

While this atmosphere is usually the highlight of the hardcore rap trio, it easily becomes the downfall of the album. I’ll stick with the baroque analogy – the bold black, yellow, and red colors quickly become excessive. Much the same, the yelled vocals and gaudy instrumental make the album one that only fits a specific mood. Just a few listens will have you wondering if you’ll ever listen to this record before sunset. Some of the tracks on the album, too, feel slightly rushed and just too focused on the hype factor. Perhaps the next record will show Flatbush Zombies striding the perfect balance.

The baseline is this: if you want to hear good hip-hop, listen to the record. However, you must be prepared to have an open mind. You are not here to hear Snoop Dogg, but you’ll still find yourself listening to impressive hip-hop.

7.5/10

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Tags : Flatbush Zombies
BC

The author BC

Born in Singapore and raised in Minnesota. I'm an aspiring jazz / hip-hop musician who loves to do anything related to music. If I'm not composing or listening to jazz / hip-hop, you'll probably find me at a concert. My rule is simple: be willing to change your mind as it is the only way of remembering you still have one.