Kottonmouth Kings have kicked their underground status with the release of their sophomore album, 'High Society'. After a couple years of touring, the Kottonmouth Kings have established themselves as prominent weed smokers, with a flare for the bong. This lifestyle emanates into their musical style with lyrics and beats are traveling along this common "indo" theme. The players consist of Brad Daddy X-"Funktologist" as producer, D-Loc & Jonny Richter on the mic, DJ Bobby B, "Hydro-Mechanics" dancer Pakelika, and drummer Lou Dog. The group as a whole combine for a fairly effective style that combines hip hop, techno and punk. This style is best compared to that of Cypress Hill or the Insane Clown Posse (ICP). Unfortunately, Kottonmouth Kings (KMK) don't pull the style off as smoothly as their superiors. With so many resources, the band's style still feels like it hasn't truly been found. As a result the album has a diverse style, but never departs from the chronic feel.

"The Lottery" is by far my favorite track. It has a west coast-laced beat that proves as catchy as they come. "Face Facts" throws in some underwater sound effects that gives this track added zest. "Wickit Klowns" features ICP, and has the best beat build up of any track. At about the 3 minute mark, the beat slows down and ICP enters with lyrics. Then the beat increases in speed adding a funk-ting that works oh so well. "First Class", "Joint", the first single "Peace Not Greed", "Round & Round" are other impressive tracks.

'High Society' has definite potential to put Kottonmouth Kings on the mainstream map alongside ICP and Cypress Hill. Their style still needs more refining and their tracks need shortening, but I enjoyed this album. If you enjoy a style that combines hip hop, punk, techno and funk to provide an upbeat indo-laced album, then this album is a must get.

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written July 3, 2000