Procussions

If the not-so-subtle hint of the microphone buried in the soil on the album cover doesn’t tip you off, the organic vibe of this LA-based Colorado trio is immediately evident. With influences of groups like the Pharcyde and the Roots, Mr. J, Stro and Res specialise in jazz-influenced hip-hop and positive lyrics, yet this isn’t along the cheesy lines of US3. The arrangements and production on the album handled entirely by Stro the 89th Key is impressive, representing a deft and knowledgeable use of live instrumentation. While there are occasional experimental meanderings that don’t quite work and a couple of instances of over-zealous noodling, this backdrop proves a fertile ground for the group lyricists. The group isn’t trying to be complex lyricists by any stretch of the imagination, and go for substance over style. Notables include "Just Over Broke (JOB),” which breaks down the class stratification and vicious cycle of dead-end jobs and the self-explanatory, uplifting "We Gotta” and "Move Yer Self.” But it’s the exquisitely paced and layered "Leave Her Alone,” detailing mismatched relationships, that plays to all the group’s strengths that’s the highlight. While the overly cynical may be wary of the Procussions’ vibe, this promising group definitely warrants open-minded attention.