Artist: The AlkaholiksTitle: FirewaterRating: 3 1/2 StarsReviewed by: Bill “Low-Key” Heinzelman
Tha Alkaholiks surely live by the motto if its not broke, don’t fix it. For 13 years, the trio of Tash, J-Ro and E-Swift has provided rowdy liquor filled and weed scented party tales for all to love. With their fifth and final album Firewater (Koch/Waxploitation Records) Tha Liks stay true to this formula.
As is the case with any Alkaholiks album, you know what you are getting into before you even rip the packaging off. In typical fashion, the lead single “The Flute Song (LaLaLa)” finds the trio buying out the bar and kicking game to all the big booty woman. The aptly titled “Party Ya Ass Off” is another vintage party anthem that asks everyone to get their drink and smoke on. Tash also takes the time out to address all the rumors surround Tha Liks, stating, “I know you heard the rumors about Tha Alkies grand finale/How J-Ro shot Swift and Tash moved out of Cali/Half of that sh*t is true, half that sh*t is true lies/It will be a cold day in hell before the Likwit crew divides.”
While Firewater continues Tha Alkaholik tradition of good old fashion feel good music, the album does falter on a few occasions due to inconsistent production. “The Get Down” features a simplistic drum heavy beat by E-Swift, as well as a lackluster hook. The same can be said for “Chaos,” as Danger Mouse’s stripped down production fails to blend with Tha Liks energetic style.
Even though Firewater may not rival Tha Liks earlier work, the album is a fitting end to a legendary and overlooked career. While the album doesn’t break any new ground, Alkaholik fans would have it no other way. The trio has stayed true to who they are for over 10 years and you have to respect that. With Tha Liks run coming to an end, it will be interesting to see if Tash, J-Ro and E-Swift can hold it down on the solo tip from here on out.
