Kenny Ken

Working together as a duo, DJ Rap and Kenny Ken piece together 13 hard-hitting drum'n'bass tracks filled with thick, modulating basslines and plenty of frantic percussion. Beginning with the whirlwind drums of G Squad's "Brave New World" and its accompanying non-stop siren loop, the two British DJs keep the tempo fast and the intensity level extreme as they move through tracks by some of the genre's best producers, along with a handful of self-affiliated tracks. Tracks such as "Tru Playaz" (DJ Hype) and "Shark Attack" (Ray Keith) may feature the big-name producers that will attract most drum'n'bass heads to this album, but ultimately the songs by the less-established Hybridz and G Squad stand out as the album's shining moments. The occasional ambient moments of vocalized feminine salacity in Hybridz's remix of "Spiritual Aura" inspire a sudden moment of serenity that is much needed during a relentless drum'n'bass set such as this. Similarly, the album's epilogue, a bonus track by Hybridz titled "Strength," also features lulling moments where the drums and basslines actually remain absent, allowing the listener a calm moment to contemplate and prepare for the forthcoming beats. There is plenty of rhythm on this album for those looking for a thick dose of funk or a chance to move their bodies; the album's opening track, G Squad's "Brave New World," jump-starts the set with a wicked hailstorm of drums, and rarely do the up-tempo rhythm and slamming beats subside thereafter. The constant uplifting tempo and barrage of percussion will wear down anyone who doesn't have a masochistic liking for the genre's hard feel. This CD is by no means some of the hardest drum'n'bass on the market, but it can get a bit monotonous without many changes in tempo or mood. This homogeneity is a testament to the smooth mixing of the featured DJ duo and also to their excellent track selection; however, the casual drum'n'bass listener may begin to tire as Rap and Ken keep pushing the tempo and the beats. ~ Jason Birchmeier, All Music Guide