To those unfamiliar with Noiseshaper, a Roots ensemble founded in 1999 by the Viennese born duo Axel Him and Flo Fleischmann, the pure novelty of a reggae remix of Carl Douglas’ “Kung Fu Fighting” should further lure listeners to the many other fine tracks on this their third studio album. With the arrival of summer, “Rough Out There” is a welcomed chill out joint with positive messages promoting the contemporary Rasta mores of nonviolent resistance to social inequities, a broadening awareness of the devastating effects of gun culture and a rousing wakeup call to take action against the many disguised and obvious forms of oppression in our world today.
The passionate Juggla is the main vocalist on most of the songs, lending his distinctive patios and phrasing from the opening “Automatic” on through “Bushmaster”, taking a rest to allow Jackie Dean his time in the spotlight on “Walking”. “This is not a Gun Thing” stands out with a surging orchestral loop, showcasing a hip-hop influenced production on a peaceable theme; a heavy sound that proves confident words and assertive riddims can have more power than the machismo posturing personas and beats of gangsta rap. “Ruff Like A What” has a playful, psycho-circus feel accentuated by a female chorus and an ultra catchy keyboard riff exemplifying how basic musical execution can have dynamic results. There is a hidden track following “Kung Fu Fighting” , listed in the liner notes as ”Transatlantic”, a mellow atmospheric piece that ends a soothing, inspiring and pleasurable listening experience. |