Dizzee Rascal - Tongue N' Cheek Album Review

OK, so we predominately cover Rock and punk esque music on this blog, but I've always been a believer that people shouldn't pigeon hole themselves to a genre or scene. Also, there's a strong argument to put forward for the fact that, regardless of sound, Dizzee Rascal is about as punk rock as anyone else these days. Much like the Prodigy before him, he has manage to capture the rebellious sound and confrontational lyricism of punk rock without picking up a guitar. This albums is self released on his own label, it will no doubt be massive and is a defiant two fingers up to all the majors still struggling to make ends meet now kids are able to download the bands they used to be charged too much for.

All this aside, Tongue In Cheek is, quite simply, an incredible album. From massive hit, and opening song Bonkers with it's incredible looping bassline to the darker edged closer Bad Behaviour, this album is just great fun to listen to. Early single Dance Wiv Me never quite hit the spot for this reviewer when it was released, but on the album it fits perfectly, breaking up the rowdier, less radio friendly tracks, such as the rattling rush of Road Rage. Dizzee definitely possess a way with words, and his playful use of current youth sayings and commentary on many of the hot topics of youth culture make for an album that on repeat listens is as topically interesting as it is initially engaging. Check it out.