The difference couldn’t be anymore obvious. While two years ago, Strong Arm Steady released their first album, »In Search Of Stoney Jackson«, on Stones Throw with Madlib as its producer, their second record is now being released on Peanut Butter Wolf’s label with Statik Selektah on the faders. Hence, all signs are set on change sound-wise, so that »Stereotype« has hardly any angles left, but instead has gained a few edges here and there. »On My Job« has a beat that makes your head nod, and also »Married To The Game« has a tight rhythm for the track to follow. There are not many moments of surprise to be found in the instrumentals. Those who still think of Madlib’s sound, could be disappointed by »Stereotype«, because Selektah tightly sticks to his plans for each track. But then again, that’s also the reason why the record is so catchy. Because Strong Arm Steady are quite capable of delivering good rhymes. The story of »Smoke On« lingers around, while the bass is doing its very own thing in the background. In addition, there are features like Casey Veggies and Picaso, which perfectly fit into the sound. And that’s actually the most important thing about »Stereotype«. No more comparisons need to be drawn, because the record pretty much stands out on its own.
Amine Laje
Datsha
Rotary Phono Lab