ALBUM REVIEW: UNVIELING THE CHAOS OF JPEGMAFIA AND DANNY BROWN'S 'SCARING THE HOES'

BY: JESSE ZAPATERO

In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, where the genre's boundaries are constantly pushed and reshaped, JPEGMAFIA and Danny Brown stand out as two artists who have consistently defied convention. Their collaborative effort, "Scaring the Hoes," is a testament to their refusal to adhere to the mainstream's norms and a fearless dive into the chaotic, experimental, and lyrically charged realm of hip-hop.

The album's title alone is a sly admission of their unconventional approach, playfully challenging the notion that hip-hop should conform to a certain formula.

From the very first track, the album catapults the listener into a whirlwind of experimentation. JPEGMAFIA's dissonant sax and thunderous drum patterns on songs like "Lean Beef Patty" and "Steppa Pig" create an industrial quality. While the verse structures may be disjointed, they are undeniably hypnotic, drawing you further into the duo's unpredictable world.

Danny Brown's unique, erratic delivery remains a captivating force throughout the album, even when the mixing doesn't always do justice to his talents. The reverb-drenched verses on "Fentanyl Tester" and the distorted couplets in the "Milkshake" flip add to the album's disorienting charm, showcasing the duo's willingness to embrace the unconventional.

A standout track, "Run the Jewels," exemplifies their approach to infusing satire and shock-jock defiance into their music. This collaboration is a head-spinning journey through party drugs and anti-establishment rebellion, where they revel in their liberation from the constraints of the music industry. "Scaring the Hoes" may not be overtly political, but it's rich in cultural references and biting commentary, delivered with equal parts humor and cynicism.

What truly sets this album apart is its liberal approach to sampling. Familiar sounds are transformed into something entirely unrecognizable, whether it's their reimagining of Diddy's "I Need A Girl (Pt. 2)" or NSYNC's "Gone." These elements are woven into a sonic tapestry that challenges traditional expectations of hip-hop production, adding to the album's rebellious spirit.

"Scaring the Hoes" is not a mere compromise or a competition between the two artists but a celebration of their individuality. JPEGMAFIA's approach and Danny Brown's distinctive style coexist harmoniously, creating a dynamic and unpredictable listening experience. Brown's zany pimp raps seamlessly interlace with JPEGMAFIA's confrontational and satirical approach, resulting in a partnership that allows each artist to shine brightly.

"Scaring the Hoes" is a testament to the bold, rebellious spirit of JPEGMAFIA and Danny Brown. This album is not for the faint of heart or those who seek conformity in their hip-hop; instead, it offers a captivating, thrilling, and often bewildering experience that defies the norms of the genre. It's a fun, chaotic mess that challenges the listener to embrace the unconventional and revel in the unexpected. If you're willing to take the plunge, "Scaring the Hoes" is a wild ride that will leave you both exhilarated and questioning the boundaries of contemporary hip-hop.