REVIEW: Family Force 5 – III EP

Artist: Family Force 5
Album: III EP
Genre: Rock/Pop/Crunk

As with their last release, Family Force 5 have released this three song EP to give fans a taste of what to expect from their upcoming full-length. As a release, it is a tad hard to analyse given the songs have been chosen at random from the album, and it’s difficult to get a feel as to what it may sound like because the songs are very different. However, it is an entertaining, if bizarre listen, and given its relative brevity does much to pique appetite for what lies ahead.

A trademark clash of genres set to sunny lyrical content, each song represents a different angle to FF5’s music. “Wobble” is a sassy, jazzy, slow-burning number infused with a kind of rhythmic funk, as though crossbred with the more energetic aspects of hip hop. It combines slick, self-assured verses with more attitude in the chorus, where the contrasting vocal styles add an extra layer of dynamism to the music. It is perhaps a little too repetitious as its latter segment seems to outstay its welcome somewhat, but it is shameless and vocal in its unabashed determination to be in your face.

“Dang Girl” is of a similar vein. It’s still rhythmic and cool, but slightly faster in pace. It has a more obvious appeal than the previous track, anchored as it is in an engaging, constant beat. The vocals seem to suit this approach more as a collision of sound samples is brilliantly offset by singing ranging from monotone to almost wheezy. It all feels quite Jersey Shore (and I am a devotee) in its attitude and insistence, which I mean as the most thorough of compliments.

“You Got It” then takes another, entirely divergent tone – it’s chirpy, indeed, it would sound almost sunkissed if any of the subject matter pertained to a beach. It has a curiously reggae vibe to it, which makes it feel carefree and upbeat and in this sense, quite charming. As with the other two songs, it’s got a pleasing swagger of its own, even if not particularly original or stellar. Mostly, it’s just fun, perhaps the last word with all FF5 releases. It is rather amusing how much gangster-style attitude is hinted at, if in a boyish, mischievous manner, and endearing to boot. A fun-loving exercise in making everyone just shut up and bop.

In summary, as difficult as it feels to properly evaluate a three-song EP, one can safely conclude that there is plenty to be excited about for the forthcoming album. III is a deliciously irreverent release, ably mixing genres and styles and thus sure to find an appeal with almost all of its listeners. A tad insubstantial it may be, but it’s something different, and it’s refreshing to see musicians unleashed with such mindless aplomb.

Score: 7/10
Review written by: Grace Duffy

James Shotwell
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