By
Maggie Burnett
Grade: A
Since producing their debut album, Behind the Front, in 1998, the Black Eyed Peas have moved up in the world of music. Their latest release, Bridging the Gap, even attracted the attention of hip-hop greats such as Wyclef Jean and Macy Gray, who appear as guest artists on the disc.
The group's first album featured a jazzier undertone, combing a more synthesized sound with a pronounced bass line. Bridging the Gap, however, maintains a more mellow rap beat. The blending of vocals, both male and female this time around, with melodic, earthy instrumentation results in a classier album with a far broader range of musical interpretation.
Although the disc includes a variety of note-worthy tracks, songs like "BEP Empire" and "Bringing it Back" typify the wide range of musical devices the Black Eyed Peas uses in its songs - hard-hitting beats and substantial lyrics. These characteristics are consistent throughout the album.
"Request + Line," featuring Gray, is a treat for hip-hop fans. Her throaty, utterly original voice complements the quick beat of the song so well that it would not be a surprise if this track ended up a hit single in the near future.
Even though the Black Eyed Peas might not be the most played artists on the radio, they have managed to compile a worthwhile album, even snagging a few major names to collaborate on several of the album's tracks- a not-too-shabby achievement for a group who entered the music scene just two years ago.
