Jhelli Beam opens with “Split Seconds (Between Nannies and Swamis),” Busdriver’s simplest, most accessible rap jam, eschewing the bursts of rapid rap flows that usually accompany his slower style, and only occasionally bringing in a bit of sing-song. It’s a safe and somewhat subtle way to draw in new listeners unwilling (or unable) to digest his normally weird output, although they’re sure to be surprised when the rest of the album kicks in, as it does with “Me-Time (with The Pulmonary Palimpsets),” a song whose piano sample brings to mind “Imaginary Places,” his hit song from Temporary Forever, arguably Busdriver’s best album so far. In fact, Jhelli Beam has more in common with Temporary Forever than with any of his other albums, although the many layers of samples and sounds on the electronic- and rock-influenced hip hop production here can be a little much at times. Sure, Busdriver could work a bit on his hooks’while the simple chorus to “Scoliosis Jones” is almost annoyingly catchy, the chorus that closes “Me-Time” evolves into a big mess’fans will only care that Busdriver continues to excel at chopping flows while bragging, boasting and mocking wack emcees through his humorous, abstract raps. Rappers Nocando and Mikah 9 offer a respite from Busdriver’s dense lyricism, and indie rockers Nick Thorburn (Islands) and John Dietrich (Deerhoof) lend some assistance, especially on the choruses of, respectively, “Happy Insider” and “Fishy Face.” While there’s some experimentation with new ideas here, Jhelli Beam is familiar enough to leave Busdriver fans more than satisfied. Unfortunately, it’s also unlikely to convert many newcomers to the cause.

RELATED POSTS:

No related posts.