The Feenom Circle are looking to get into your regular rotation. The Bay Area trio has been putting in the work, dropping two EP’s this year alone; “Souled Seperately” and “The Pawn Shop.” The self-proclaimed ‘middle ground’ group seeks to defy the mainstream/underground categorization and just make music that appeals to all comers. Their jazz influenced aesthetic will probably garner comparisons to Tribe and Digable Planets, and not without warrant.
“Souled Seperately” is probably the more subdued of the two EP’s. The production is very laid back. Crisp snares are routinely sprinkled with an array of horns and keys, all blanketed by their astute lyricism. The opening track “Nothing Yet” is a prefect indicator of where this album goes. “Masters Too” is the most paced offering, complete with a ?uestlove-enthused drum line. Not to mention the funky little numbers called “Circulation” and “I Ain’t Askin'” As dope as they are, the Feenom Circle sees their best results when they slow it down on “Misunderstanding.” Their thoughtful commentary is best displayed on the excellent spoken word inspired piece “Public Transit.”
“The Pawn Shop” is not only the better produced EP but the more topical of the two (as you can tell from the sub-titles in paranthesis). “Frisco Disco (Live-From-Club Parody)” is as good as it gets from them and a great indication of just how good their production is. The vibe switches up with “F-Sharp” that packs a light airy vibe reminiscent of a People Under The Stairs track. “A-Train” is likely the best track from the two EP’s. Aside from the terrific lyrical content and chorus, the dark and moody production is flawless in its execution. “Hood Child” is nearly as good, the production is so crisp and the guitar licks will win over just about anyone.
Calling this ‘middle ground’ hip-hop is about as accurate a description of their style I could think of. Their lyrics are thoughtful and conscious without being preachy, their beats are organic without being boring. They are not the first crew to blur these lines, but they have a way of standing on their own. “The Pawn Shop” is the better EP of the two, and it was also the latter. If the improvement they showed in a matter of months is indicative of their future, then expect to hear big things from the Feenom Circle. Oh, and I must mention how dope the album art is. Anyhow, This is just some good honest hip-hop for the soul.
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6/10 & 6.5/10
