Guru Album: “Jazzmatazz, Vol. 3: Streetsoul”

Ok, I admit it...as far as soulful music goes, this year has been an utter and complete disappointment. The poor quality and formulaic construction of both Joe and Boyz II Men's albums (YES i did say that, now i want ANYONE to respond that they were better than the old albums by the same artists) has brought me to almost refute the entire genre, the only thing i look forward to now is the K-ci and jojo album in december with a new jodeci track! But despite that fact, Guru's third Jazzmatazz effort comes through in a brilliant way, successfully hybridizing soul with hip-hop and a tinge of jazz.

This Jazzmatazz appeals to a wider audience than the first two editions did; the focus is hip-hop with a message, and the soulful influences are not forced onto the listener, but mainly an additional musical layer. Standout tracks are "Keep Your Worries", "Hustlin Daze", "Guidance", and "Timeless". Guru has successfully stepped out of the shadow of Gangstarr and proves that he can create an entire album that is extremely listenable, almost never slipping up even without DJ Premier's reliable sonic background. In fact, this album simply increases the anticipation for the next Gangstarr album; it's very good to hear Guru's confident rhymes again, and it's also very comforting to know he hasn't forgotten any of his soulful hip-hop roots unlike artists such as the Boyz, Joe, and Sisqo. A thoroughly enjoyable album from start to finish, and one of the best albums of the year!

In Guru's third installment of the Jazzmatazz series, he has not let any one down. You can't skip over one track on this release, or you will miss some serious musical talent. With Jazzmatazz Vol. 1 being more jazzy, and two being a little more hip-hop, number 3 is probably his most hip-hop based CD yet; while incorporating the jazz in it also and it still has a half French song in it just like Vol. 1!!! It is very reminiscent of Gangstarr. This CD is packed with phat beats, deep lyrics, and some killer instrumentals!!!

If a bunch of decent beats ruined by wack (with a few exceptions) R&B hooks is your idea of Jazzmatazz, check this out. If not stick to Volume One, where there was actually some jazz cats on the album. Premier, help your man out, it's time for a new Gangstarr album.

One of Guru's problems - although it's hard to think that it could ever really be a problem - is that his earlier stuff is just SO good that any backwards step makes him come off badly.

It can be quite easily said that the first Jazzmatazz CD created a whole new set of parameters both for rap in general, and Guru in specific. While not yet having the second volume in the trilogy, I'm assured that it is equally groundbreaking. The problem with "Streetsoul" is that it just isn't groundbreaking at all.

That said, Guru turning in a poor effort is similar to many rappers turning in their best performances ever. Despite the fact that "Streetsoul" hasn't moved the boundaries to any great extent, it has certainly moved well within them.

Guru's rapping here is not much different to any of his earlier work, but then again - does it need to be? His style and flow is one of the most recognisable in hip-hop today and certainly does lend the album that extra edge. The monotone rap, however, does get a bit annoying when it is always coupled with singing - and what talented singing! - as opposed to flowing over jazz music.

In fact, the jazz aspect of the "Jazzmatazz" is sadly lacking here. The only real jazz artist is Herbie Hancock (sounding only a shadow of his former self on "Timeless"), while Les Nubians could at a pinch be described as jazz vocalists (providing the requisite French lyrics on "Who's There?").

As far as the other guests go, it does begin to sound a bit "old hat" eventually. Not to detract from the individual merits of Angie Stone, Erykah Badu, Kelis, Donnell Jones, Craig David and co - but the tracks do begin to blend into each other if the listener doesn't take enough care and pay enough attention.

Some of the selctions of guests are clearly inspired choices. Les Nubians and Erykah Badu both add great colour to their respective tracks ("Who's There?" and "Plenty"), with Badu clearly enjoying the old-style singing involved on her duet. Donnell and Angie also provide creditable support on "Hustlin' Daze" and "Keep Your Worries" respectively.

The duet with Craig David ("No More") is not as good as perhaps it should have been. Granted, David posesses one of the finest voices in pop music, however his singing winds up clashing a bit with Guru - possibly due to his inexperience. I would have recommended the duet for the next album if there is such a thing. Perhaps most disappointingly, Big Shug - the only Volume 1 veteran on this recording - seems to have lost his edge and now sounds like just another thug-rapper.

Overall, an album still well worth getting. While in terms of Guru's work, it only rates 3 stars - when compared with the trash being passed off as hip-hop in recent years, it is worth the purcahse

Guru's music has always been laced with Jazz(see Gangstarr's early work). He found the perfect guests for this album. From the current stars Erykah, Macy, Angie and The Roots to legends like Issac and Herbie. This album can play in any jazz or poetry club. Had I known it was so good, I would have bought it sooner. I wish Pru were on the album though. Being that she is from Houston where Premier is from. Anyone who appreciates good smooth jazz can get into this. EVen those who just appreciate music can vibe to it. This album is soul indeed!!