311 – Evolver

311 is from Omaha, Nebraska and formed in 1988. They play reggae, hip-hop, funk, dancehall, punk, and tons of other styles of music. They didn’t land a record deal until 1992 when they signed withCapricorn Records, so until then, they put out 3 albums by themselves: “Hydroponic,” “Unity,” and “Dammit.” They have released 7 albums plus a Greatest Hits album and a Live album since they got a record deal.

311’s 7th studio album, Evolver, is one of 311’s most prestige album. Released in 2003, Evolver will most likely be one the top albums in this decade, and one of my all time favorite releases from this area of genre. Starting off with their first track and first single, Creatures (For A While) jumps out with a heavy guitar riff and catchy bass lines. It was a great first choice for their first single because the song is full of energy and really catches the listeners ear. Crack The Code, A funky song that does not fail to convey that the boys still know how to rap after 13 years. Chad and P-Nut really bring out their talents in this song, mixing the drums and bass together firmly.

Beyond The Gray Skies, my favorite song on the album. The first time you hear it, you think “wow, that’s just another cool reggae/rock song just like most of 311’s older music, but then you realize that the song is about a friend of the band that ended his life early and the band wants to know… “What made you want to end it all? Wasn’t there something I should have tried, To help you see beyond the gray sky?”. Nick’s voice is perfect for this song, and it could not have been sang better. Seems Uncertain is another song that shows the softer side of the band, with yet another strong lyrical message being sent across. Other Side of Things A great intro-verse to a funky/rock song that has very cool rap like verses from Nick. Very similar to the earlier songs but still has its originality.

Sometimes Jacks Rule the Realm, a great way to end the CD, combining just about all of the elements that 311 brings to the table. This song has 3 parts, the first which is a soft acoustic ballad. The second mixes great guitar solos with lyrics that flow smoothly and very good work on the drums by Chad. The third is after the bulk of the track is over, with a very flowing guitar bit. An awesome track to end this album on because it just makes you want to have more and more.