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Artist: YoungbloodzTitle: Drankin’ PatnazRating: 2 StarsReviewed by: Paine

In the late 90′s, it was hard to trace much of the southern bounce sound

back to real hip-hop. While the Dungeon Family, Odd Squad, and Geto Boys have

always done it, it had been a minute since a newer group appealed. The

Youngbloodz, like A.I., were the answer. Their debut, Against Da Grain was a stellar

album led by “85″ featuring Outkast. The ‘Bloodz are back with a follow-up, on

a different label (So So Def), and a reworked sound.

While content may not have been the Youngbloodz’ strongest claim, they

managed to make an interesting album the first time around. This time, on

Drankin’ Patnaz, the content is no more original than the album title. While J-Bo

and Sean Paul (not the reggae guy) still provide great elements of voice and bold delivery, they

have nothing to say. The lead single, “Cadillac Pimpin’” affirms that, consisting only of a

club-minded hook and a catchy beat. While “85″ was a gliding track

about cruising on a southern night, the ‘Bloodz provided a dismal sequel effort,

“Lane to Lane.” This track is supposed to be a storytelling track about the

sights of the road. While it’s one of the album’s stronger cuts, it doesn’t add

up to what the ‘Bloodz were capable of in ’99. The best element of the

Youngbloodz is their delivery. The title track is a classic example of deep throated

Atlanta spitting. Despite the strong sounding verses, there isn’t a worthwhile

hook or chorus on this album.

While Jazze Pha and Lil’ Jon each contributed some guest production, the

best production of the album comes from the group’s in-house, Mark Twayne and

Trackboyz. “Hustle”, a track featuring Killer Mike has a really interesting

rocking beat. The drums are slowed down, and the synthesizers are just dumped on

to create a unique sound. Still, most of the productions are anticlimactic.

For a low-content record, one would certainly expect juiced up beats.

All together, this album is very lackluster. While it’s not terrible,

this still isn’t the album to be expected from such a dynamic group the last time

’round. Equally, as groups like Field Mob and Nappy Roots continue to justify

southern music with stronger content and more interesting presentation, the

‘Bloodz need to kick it in gear and analyze what made Against Da Grain so hot.