I haven’t heard from these clods in so long that I thought they retired. Then again, I don’t have an explanation for their absence. I do remember Ryu dropping the “Christmas inspired” “I Did It To Myself” song almost two years ago. Looking at what the wind blew in, Reseda Beach was supposed to be their major label debut. Since the label isn’t backing them, fans get a chance to hear what they were up to.

 

For the most part, their album is concocted of pretty good hip hop music. “Take That” lets Ryu do his double time flow part time with a nice Celph Titled feature. “Dumb It Down” is a representation of them “lowering their musical expectations” by using the obvious sample and making something catchy. While poking fun at commercialized music, they still create something catchy. So it is safe to say that they can still craft songs worthy of a spin or two.

 

As good as the album gets, there are some missteps. Some people may not take to “The Pirate Song”, as bouncy and fun as it can be. The “Bumble Bee Skit” could be considered type corny to many listeners (including yours truly). Even further is “Live From Ibiza Skit”, something that will guarantee to generate shrugs and question marks. As cool as the album is, there are some unnecessary skits and songs included.

 

The verdict on Reseda Beach: it’s good. However, something tells me that it could have been better. If you are familiar with Styles of Beyond, you know exactly what I am talking about. Their previous work eclipses this album. Still, their rhyme patterns and ability to craft songs are still intact. In the end, their music settled for “good” when they are capable of “great”.