Doodlebug Ft. D.O.R. – Futuristic Sci-Fi
Soulspazm: 2011
If I say ‘Doodlebug from Digable Planets,’ do your ears perk up? Thought so.
On this go-round, the kid from DP teamed up with DJ Alex J. of D.O.R. to bring us Futuristic Sci-Fi, an 18-track album (give or take an interlude or bonus track), that’s refreshingly different production-wise and lyrically tangible.
The album’s concept is based off an old Star Trek: Voyager episode (no bullshit) where the team of trekkers travels back in time. So, in effect, the album attempts – and achieves – to be a throwback to times when rap was primarily about breaking, DJ-ing and street art.
Jumping off with “I’ll Be Right Here” and its layers of different tempo’d beat elements and soul samples, Doodlebug and some friends recant memories of Hip-Hop’s past, how it touched their lives and where it’s heading, among other topics in a subtle posse cut. More reminiscing is laid out on “Changing the Game”, with more soul sampling, some scratching and a quick drum loop.
Contrasting that, other tracks like the groovy “Outtaspacefunkadelic” and “Get Up”, with its hypnotic hook, are tracks primarily about spitting random, sick lines. And it’s that difference in substance and style with both the beats and rhymes that keeps the album moving and your ears tuned in.
But, that’s not to say the album doesn’t have a few speed bumps. The sing-songy hook on “Sweet Music”, for instance, sounds like an adlib from someone with a bit of vocal training. Other bangers include the motivational tribute to pushing forward amid difficulty “Shine,” the lovesick “I Never” and the quick-kick of the drums, subliminal keys and centering content of “Twilight.”
Overall, Futuristic Sci-Fi likely won’t resonate with fans of the flashy, show-off sounds of the dominant radio raps these days. But, that’s the point. Instead, Doodlebug and DJ Alex J. have given us a record that’s full of new verses and varied beats that still feels as familiar and comfortable as that old hoodie you’d never throw away.
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3.5 out of 5
