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The Odd Couple
- By Gnarls Barkley
- Genre: Hip-hop
Common Sense Media says
Refreshing, eclectic mix of genres; a bit somber.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know there's a lot going on under the flashy musical surface of Gnarls Barkley's second album, including some introspective and sometimes somber lyrics, which are truthful but fine for young teens. "F--k" is said twice in one song and the band references drugs in passing, but other than that, there's not a lot to be concerned about.
What's the story?
Gnarls Barkley is back with a follow-up to the duo's hugely popular and critically-acclaimed debut. Consisting of super-producer Danger Mouse and vocalist Cee-Lo, Gnarls Barkley creates a unique sound that is difficult to classify into one musical genre. They may be a unique pairing, but they're also a match made in modern music heaven, seamlessly combining a cross-section of American musical genres from everything from blues and jazz to doo-wop and techno.
Is it any good?
There are plenty of musical effects, catchy choruses, and up-tempo beats, but these two musicians make more than just pretty music. The lyrics are thoughtful, sometimes even philosophical and somber, accented by Cee-Lo's sincere and affable vocals. Gnarls Barkley is bold enough to create a sound all its own, welcoming fans of all musical stylings. Those who dug the single "Crazy" from the group's first album won't be disappointed by this new offering, with standout tracks such as "Neighbors" and "She Knows" maintaining that familiar "Gnarly" mash-up sound.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about how this album represents an "odd couple." The duo is made up of two very different musicians. How does the music reflect the combination of different styles, such as rock and hip-hop? How unusual is it to see a mixed race duo? Do you think this contributes to the group's appeal?
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AGE
The best, most original album in years
This is an absolutely fantastic album. The most original Ive heard in years. The songs are a bit quirky and different, and thus require something out of the listener to unlock their full potential. There are refrences to love, not sex. There are two light drug refrences. Besides two quick uses of f—k in on song, language is not an issue. While violence is not directly stated, death is constant topic of songs, and is viewed from all angles. "Little Bit Better" looks at the sad past of the singer (including death/abusive parents), "Who's Gonna Save My Soul" talks about the death of a close friend, "Would Be Killer" looks at death/murder from a killer's perspective, and last/best of all "Going On" is a bitter sweet song about the singer dying telling friends not to worry having lived life to the fullest “my mind is already gone / and I’m going on / to a place in the sun that’s nice and warm.†“Blind Mary†reveals truths about living life to fullest through the eyes of a blind woman (no pun intended). If you look past the funky beats, you’ll see a very interesting examination life and death.
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AGE
Great production and off-beat lyrics make good album!
Not as good as their debut, but Gnarls Barkley certainly deliver an excellent album with amazing original tracks.
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| Artist: | Gnarls Barkley |
| Release date: | March 18, 2008 |
| Label: | Atlantic |
| Genre: | Hip-hop |
| Parental advisory: | No |
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