Search - G. Love :: The Hustle

Rapping Blues

Justin Mclaughlin | Minturn, CO United States | 12/14/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"For those of you already acquainted with G Love and Special Sauce I say this: this album fits in with his previous work. Lyrically and stylistically the songs are closest to Philadelphonic - and he even closes with a solo acoustic blues song very similar to "Gimme some Lov'n." For those who are G Love fans and enjoy his past work, this record will not disappoint.



Now to address those of you who aren't familiar with this music. My argument in favor of G Love's music is this. G Love has come along and somehow managed to incorporate elements of so many styles: rock and roll, funk, blues, jazz, folk, and - hip-hop. His records are hard to classify, but so what. When he rips into a harmonica solo (as he does often on this record) you feel you could be listening to Howling Wolf. The first track (astronaut) sounds a bit like Lenny Kravitz. But beware: the second tune is more hip-hop infused. I would say the music is a perfect hybrid for our modern times.



G Love and Special sauce are three people. G-love plays the electric guitar, acoustic guitar, slide-guitar, and harmonica. There is a jazz bassist who adds heavily to the band's sound, adding to the rhythm and often pushing the melody as well. The drummer has a busy sound, one that often sets the backdrop for G Love's raps. On this record there are plenty of other musicians to fill out the texture, from backup singers to pianos. My only G Love complaint on this record is his lyrics - they are limited to hooking up with some chick, being stoned, or talk abstractly about "love." I know it's his name and all, but he would be better served expanding his lyrics occasionally to say something different or more important.

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Momma says G. is BOSS

mbqh | philly | 06/03/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"FUNKY, Funny, folksy, from Philly...what more could i ask for? Oh yeah, Bluesy! Sounds like me. Ok,so I'm old enough to be Garret's mother.I found the 1994 G.Love and SS CD for $1. at a Flea Mkt recently. I was hooked and went out and bought the rest (retail). Hustle is my fav so far. He incorporates so many different sounds and does it so well. I rock every morning to work w/G. or Jack J (where I first heard of G.) and it's heaven when they're together.



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