'Misconceptions' is the latest release from Untitled, and it shows an awareness and maturity that provides an alternative voice within the scene. While not perfect, this CD is a good, well-constructed achievement and, within the genre, a highly original release.
The mixtape is definitely a grower, which is down to the breadth of topics scrutinised under Untitled's microscope. The content is not something a grime listener would necessarily expect, yet the issues are largely relevant and often complemented with a humour that cuts into the density of the subjects.
The emphasis on personal experiences leads to greater immediacy and relevance to the listener, contrasting to the more distant and arguably cliche Euthanasia. The personal is shown to maximum effect on one of the best tracks, Be Alright, and the spoken asides add to the beat as well as the general theme of storytelling.
The spitting tackles the subjects well enough, yet at times the flow could be better, and there is some montony in delivery. However, the hook on Councils shows the possibilities when everything comes together, and the track itself represents the broadening scope of a CD that still sticks to familiar and pressing issues. The peer pressure of Knife and characters wasting away in Alchi emphasise breadth, yet it's all rounded off with Music, a good song that proves a fitting ending.
Approaching different topics is respected, but the more conventional grime tracks are highlights, such as Fed Up and You Don't Know, and both are pushed further by great productions from J Beatz and Z Dot respectively. The production is one of the best parts of the CD, and the faith paid in new producers plying their trade reaps dividends. Rude Kid is the most established name, and he leads the way at the start yet Moony, Troublesome and Royal T all contribute.
Naturally there are some weaknesses, yet it doesn't hide the fact that Untitled has put together a professional product that is a breath of fresh air. Go and support it.
The CD is available now from:
Grimestore
UK RecordShop
Uptown Records
Avalanche Music Hut
And Untitled's Myspace
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