Bliss n Eso - Flying Colours

The dynamic duo in the OzHipHop scene is back with their latest album 'Flying Colours'. Bliss n Eso appear to have matured lyrically since their 'Day of the Dog' LP and have released the album to coincide with their current 'Unified' tour with other OzHipHop artists such as Funkoars; True Live and The Winnie Coopers. The 17-track ensemble features appearances from Hyjak; Phrase; and the 20-piece Zulu Connection Choir, upon reading the track list alone I knew i would be content with their latest efforts. The starting track and first single 'Woodstock 2008' brings the heat, with Bliss n Eso declaring their place within the OzHipHop scene. Its fast paced, well written and gets you revved up and excited for what is about to come.



The second track 'Eye of the Storm' is a slower song. Drawing on Bliss n Eso's childhood, reminiscing on the good times they had and what they missed from their younger years. This track, which is presently one of my favourites paints a picture for the listener and almost makes you look back on your own childhood and the times you miss.

As the album progresses, Bliss n Eso takes you on a ride touching on political issues in songs such as 'The Sea is Rising' and 'Bullet and a Target'. These songs show Bliss n Eso's dislike of war, critizing the Australian government's decision to support America in Iraq whilst preaching a message of "Peace, love and unity ".

The sampling in a few of the tracks on the album I personally found is quite eerie. Songs including the the intro track 'The Beginning'; 'Destiny Lane' and 'The Truth' all seem to use similar samples which I concluded set the scene of the album. The samples (mainly at the commencement of the tracks) define the style in which Bliss n Eso are going to take to a track. The samples used promote a darker style in the three preceding songs, which shows the diversity they can bring in their music.


Overall I was happy with what I heard on this album and was pleasantly surprised at how much they had improved lyrically since their last effort 'Day of the Dog'. This album I personally think has international appeal if marketed correctly, despite it not touching on issues more mainstream rap albums generally have (guns; sex; violence). I have deemed this album a success overall for the crew and I think it is a landmark in there rap careers. With an almost flawless blend of humour, politics and personal experiences I have given this album 9/10.

Standout tracks on the album include 'Eye of the Storm'; 'Field of Dreams'; 'Gorilla Militia'.

Get it while its hot!

UK Ban of Snoop Dogg Lifted

Snoop Dogg is apparently no 'stray' animal according to the UK after his life-time ban from the UK was lifted today. The re-formed drug-dealer's ban was lifted after footage was shown in court regarding the subject showing Snoop Dogg remaining calm after being pushed by a police officer at Heathrow airport. I read on MTV.com in their news section, that he is presently preaching against gang culture and youths carrying guns. Maybe he has gone soft in regard to his gangster ways with his old age.

But for now it looks like he is out of the doghouse and finally allowed back into the UK.