True Live formed in 2003, and believe that their name reflects exactly what they are. A truly amazing, live experience (which I myself have not yet seen, but I've read a bit that confirms this). The group differs from most other Hip Hop orientated groups, in that they have no use for a DJ. Instead, and ensemble consisting of a Double Bass, a Cello, a Violin, Keyboards/Piano and Drums provides the basis for the Classical/Jazz influenced 'Beats'.
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Originally Posted by Album Art
No samples were used in the creation of this recording (not that there's anything wrong with that)
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The
Mintons EP is the groups first release, and I must say that it is quite good. Each song gives a slightly different insight towards the bands overall direction, but I haven't heard enough material from them to know exactly how their future releases will sound. The first track,
Question This, is really catchy. It opens with quiet a classical sounding piece, before the Double Bass enters setting a foundation. The verse is rapped, with the foundation beat being accompanied by some really nice Piano work in the latter half. The chorus is one of the most memorable moments on the album, with simple lyrics, a sharp, grooving beat which features a couple of near a-capella moments.
The title track,
Mintons is more upbeat, with a clapping, vocal intro, and some distant sounding Snare drums. It's some pretty Jazzy stuff, particularly the Piano, and the Violin/Cello being played in a style much like the Trumpet would be. There's also some extensive use of backing vocals here. The song also finishes as though it was played live, with a "Thank you Ladies & Gentlemen", even though it wasn't.
Bounce is again founded by Drums and the Double Bass. The vocals are ok, but nothing to really get excited about. The Violin and Keys add some spice to the mix though, both entering with some cool little pieces. The song takes an unexpected break at about the half way mark, with the beat breaking down a strange violin sounding bit. It's like something you'd hear in a sci-fi movie when someone is about to discover something strange and unexpected. The sound appears again at the end of the song, but instead of seeming so sudden, it builds slowly towards a climax which is pretty cool.
A live track has been thrown on the EP for good measure. It's called
Evolution and was recorded the the Enmore Theatre when they supported Moby (I can't find a date). I can't decide whether or not it, or Question This, is my favourite song from the EP. It starts slowly, led by the Piano and Violin. It's got a sad tone to it. The vocals are softly sung. The verse begins, the violin exits, and the Drums fill it's place, playing distantly, but a few more prominent rolls and fill thrown in. The rapping style is slow, and it's not long before the violin/cello is back, and the piano is hinting at doing much more than playing the same slow beat over and over again. The chorus is sung in the same manner as the intro. It's the halfway point, and the song is building in intensity. The verse finishes, and the Piano is again the focus of the music, playing some excellent little leads. It's a great instrumental break, lasting nearly two minutes before the song fades out with chorus.
The final track is an alternative version of
Mintons. For the most part, it's kind of the same, which is to be expected. It's less refined though, and lasts a good two minutes longer. Right from the beginning, it's more upfront, and the tempo seems a little faster. The extra two minutes comes from an instrumental segment towards the end, where the band shows of a little. It then finishes when the song hits double time, racing towards the EP's end.
Overall, the EP is pretty decent. The vocals are probably a little sloppy in places, but that's being really nit picky. The musicianship is great though. I'd even go as far to say they could put together quite a worthwile instrumental album. Otherwise, the album has some pretty cool moments, and others that aren't overly exciting. Thankfully the latter is a rare occasion. I'd recommend this to anyone looking for something a little different with in their Hip Hop, or those who love either the Violin or Piano.
