Review - Panic Prevention

CD Info Box
Artist: Jamie T
Album: Panic Prevention
Released: 2007
Label: Pacemaker
MySpace: www.myspace.com/jamietwimbledon

Eminem predicted as early as The Marshal Mathers LP that a flood of white rappers would emerge. It hasn't exactly been a flood but they've trickled out and generally, they've destroyed the bloated self-indulgent world of the 50 Cent's and Diddy's of this world.

One of these is Wimbledon's Jamie Treays, where most modern rappers boast about only needing a microphone he chooses to differ and announces that on the first track 'Brand New Bass Guitar'. Armed with only an acoustic bass guitar, clapped out Casio keyboard and enough wit and tunes to create one hell of a debut album.

The formula for each song is pretty much the same, rap verse, sung chorus, repeat to the beat of whatever tune is emerging from the bass/synth combination. If you listen for the rap, you'll be happy. Listen for the tune and you'll find plenty of bouncy, jolly tunes tucked away (So Lonely Was The Ballad and first single Sheila perfect examples). Listen for both though and you get an odd clash of cultures that shows a cast of characters on all sides of the 'modern britain' debate. These songs aren't about disillusionment with the Work Work Work Pub Club Sleep way of life, but neither are they living for those times. They're about consequences and not forgetting the good times.

The additional thing to the album is the inclusion of the 'skits' which characterise all hip-hop albums. Of course these are all pulled mostly with humour, from Jamie ranting at kids pulling "kung-fu wheelies" to 2 girls talking about their favourite drinks (cocoa).

The sarcasm and good natured fun that seeps through the whole CD makes this worth trying even if you have become wary of all rap artists. Jamie's skill with a rhyme and a tune means the worst thing you can do is ignore him. A Mercury Prize nomination is almost certain I think, and its well deserved.

Final Word
A victory for rap, music, style and substance.
Nine (9)