Whodini - Back In Black

Released in 1986

Whodini, featuring the talents of Jalil Hutchins, John Fletcher (Ecstasy) and DJ Drew Carter (Grandmaster Dee), was one of the premiere 80's rap groups, responsible for laying out countless gems. Run-D.M.C. is generally credited with being the 80's most influential rap group, and while I won't deny their contribution to the rap scene I do believe that some have sorely underestimated Whodini's work and impact. Back in Black, Whodini's masterful third album, perfectly illustrates this claim.

Back in Black was one of those rare rap albums that received near constant play in my stereo for days at a time when I was a kid; it's just chock full of brilliant and inoffensive rap classics. Whodini's flow was always as smooth as silk, and they were constantly showing a diversity of musical beats and styles, thus keeping the listener interested and alert throughout the entire album.

Some of the album highlights are:

• Funky Beat – One of the best tracks Whodini ever laid out. It features thundering bass and drums as well as a smooth lyrical flow from all three members of the group. Simply a rap classic that must be heard.
• One Love – A smooth and sentimental look at love and relationships. The silky lyrical delivery and juicy synthesizer additions make this pure ear candy.
• Fugitive – While Run-D.M.C. largely earned the reputation for fusing rock/metal and rap together; Whodini proves they are more than capable of doing the same on this wicked track.

The three highlights above are just a couple of the top-notch rap songs that make up Back in Black. You definitely won't want to miss any of the others such as the amusing I'm a Ho if you're an older school rap fan. An essential 80's rap album.

Rating: 9 stars

Track List Funky Beat One Love Growing Up I'm a Ho How Dare You Fugitive Echo Scratch Last Night (I Had a Long Talk With Myself) The Good Part The Whodini Mega Mix

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