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Title: Funk-Rap Fusion
Review: 311 is back in form - they've always had a hip, goofy edge to their music, which can be a dangerous thing as it can delve into the cheesy (um, that AI song on Soundsystem?). They've also been a powerful fusion band from the beginning, incorporating funk, metal, rap, reggae, even jazz into some of their recordings. This album represents a step up on the fusion line, and perfects their fun edge without being silly. I've only listened to it a couple of times, but overall I'd say it is a great, new-sounding album that should put Omaha, Nebraska (or is it L.A. now?) back on the map. Honestly, this album shows growth in the same way that Pearl Jam's progression of albums does. If you're looking for 311's best album, I'd probably suggest Music, but I think this effort is awesome - you really have to hear it to understand how a seemingly passe genre (i.e., rap-rock) can still take new directions and make some exciting, exotic-ally flavored music.
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