"9000¬?," the first real album from VC Strut Band, feels fresh beyond belief. Part of that freshness comes from the group's unique blend of tone and attitude. On the one hand they've got traditional funk instruments putting out a casual beat, and on the other they have rap vocals that add a touch of urgency to the otherwise easy-going drums and horn-based rhythm.
This diversity of sound may come from their array of instrumentation (including a trombone, sax, trumpet and flute) as well as their own diversity: The band features eight musicians that differ in everything from hometown, background and race.
Yet, if you do not consider yourself to be a true hip-hop fanatic, don't be driven away, because the band provides something for everyone. VCSB is definitely rap, but more along the lines of Black Eyed Peas than 50 Cent. You won't find anything "gangsta" here, and the music is much better because of it.
Admittedly, there is not a whole lot of substance in what VCSB does say, but the rap is voiced in such a smooth and laid-back manner that it's tempting to remove the label of "rap" altogether and instead refer to it as "urban poetry."
Honestly though, VCSB would probably not approve of the "poetry" title, as it implies a sense of rigidity or formality which couldn't be farther from the truth. When trying to describe VCSB's songs, the words "kind" and "warm-hearted" come to mind.
Listening to their music is like talking to someone you just met but can already tell has really good people skills; you're in new territory, but instantly at ease, and you want that feeling of relaxation to continue. If you were talking to someone like this, you'd do whatever was necessary to keep up the conversation. With "9000¬?," you just let the tracks keep playing until the CD stops spinning.
When talking with Kyhil, VCSB's vocalist, he made sure to say their lyrics "just come upon dealing with everyday life and the substance that it is." Finding that substance and communicating it through funk is what "9000¬?" does best, and Kyhil believes "waking up everybody else around" is what gives VCSB's music the spark so many other bands cannot seem to find.
"Funk is What it is," the first track on the CD, is a perfect example of the group's "substance," and one simple listen should let you know whether or not VCSB is for you. Its combination of funk and randomly enthusiastic vocals typifies the type of music found throughout "9000¬?." Any band that can find a way to put a line about Nicholas Cage in a song about funk clearly does not take itself too seriously, and what is so great is VCSB uses that attitude to their advantage.
Other standout tracks include "Section Eight" and "American Dream," but it is unfair to try to pick and pry at the album to find the gems. VCSB's smooth-flowing attitude is everywhere on this disc; each track deserves multiple listens, and maybe even a spot or two on your favorite playlists.
The best part about all of this is that VCSB will be performing at The Rutledge on 4th Avenue on April 20th. Tickets are cheap at under $10, and you will be sorry to miss the opportunity to hear this interesting group live.
