[Review] 'Journey In Blue' by Urbanalog

Hip-hop fans will be pleased to hear the music of today's review.� As an ode to the wide range of music in this world, and how easily and ever-so-intricately it can overlap within itself, hip-hop duo Urbanalog (comprised of members Sanpe and Capstone) have packaged one of the finest urban releases of the past month. Titled "Journey In Blue," Urbanalog's latest album marks their first release in three years. In 2008, the duo dropped their first EP, "Body And Soul." The title track featured a very groovy and soulful arrangement that was strongly reflected in its lyric �- "When you dance to the music, use your body and soul."� The single was well received, and I'd bet it had a little something to do with its message; Urbanalog preached a simple, yet meaningful chorus, �laid over an infectious melody that left their audience with nothing else to do but give into the music wholeheartedly (as seen here in a live performance of "Body And Soul"). Now Urbanalog are back and offering a far more subtle flavor to their music. --- "Journey In Blue" Track List: 01. Beginning For Journey (Prod. by Faim) 02. Blue's Walk (Prod. by Primary) 03. Time Files (Prod. by Michita) 04. I've Got My Second Wind (Prod. by Michita) 05. Minds Bridge (Prod. by Moon1) 06. Chillin' Cycle (Prod. by Shimmy Twice) 07. Journey In Blue (Prod. by Michita) 08. On The Terminus (Prod. by Faim) --- When one thinks of 'hip-hop', what usually comes to mind are heavy beats and slick rhythms, but "Journey In Blue" brings a fresh take on the genre to the table.� This album is centered on the union of hip-hop with jazz, and Urbanalog have achieved to marry the two styles like a couple of peas in a pod. "Journey In Blue" is penned as a more poetic album than its predecessor.� The intro ("Beginning For Journey") opens the album by painting an ominous soundscape of an empty urban scene with nothing but a passing train.� The scene looms under a soft piano line and rhythmic finger snaps, setting the tone for the entire album and transitioning smoothly into the lead single, "Blue's Walk." Urbanalog haven't just made great beats this time, but have also tapped into a deeper source of inspiration, allowing themselves to make a stronger emotional connection through their music.� As I listen to this album, it makes perfect sense why they chose "Blue's Walk" as the lead single.� One of the highlights of Urbanalog's latest work is the fact that they brought jazz vocalist Jang a Reum to breathe her fresh vocals into the album.� She teamed up with the duo and worked together from beginning to end to make sure "Journey In Blue" was consistent and authentic in style. Jang a Reum sings in the lead single (as well as several other tracks) and her tame style works wonders in this terrain of music.� "Blue's Walk" continues the softness of the intro track; this time, with Sanpe and Capstone doing their thing over lyrical beats to create a soothing and visceral experience.� The thing that works so well in Urbanalog's favor is the versatility of hip-hop.� It's defined by the rhymes, but the beats and music is what gives it character and appeal.� This fresh wave of jazzy hip-hop is planting roots in yet another territory for the genre, and Urbanalog's efforts are doing it justice. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DMtYDoiWn4 "Journey In Blue" travels lightly from one song to the next.� There isn't any immediate urgency in this album, and rightfully so.� Each individual song is crafted for the listener to enjoy every moment, from the chiming trumpets, piano riffs, to the snares.� Much of the arrangements on this small collection of songs are credited to the talents who worked with Urbanalog for this album. Michita, one of Japan's jazz hip-hop stars, produced�three�songs: "Time Files," "I've Got My Second Wind," and "Journey In Blue."� Along with two of Korea's leading beat-makers,�Primary (producer of "Blue's Walk") and Shimmy Twice ("Chillin' Cycle"), Faim (responsible for the intro and outro), and�rookie beat-maker,�Moon1 ("Minds Bridge"), all of these noteworthy producers managed to bring their own ear to Urbanalog's style of music to create a cohesive little ditty. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cHMj47y_cI --- There's something refreshing about listening to something this calm and laid-back. It's definitely a change of pace, but one I'm more than willing to follow.� "Journey In Blue" sees Urbanalog approaching their music from a different angle, and it seems to have suited them to a T.� They've embodied the raw effect of jazz and made it work for them as a hip-hop duo. The end result?� A timeless, cohesive, and fluid piece of music.� Everything feels right when you listen to this album, especially hearing the featured vocalist Jang a Reum, who really took "Journey In Blue" to a whole new level of enjoyment. There is said to be a jazzy hip-hop scene growing in the streets of Korea, and regardless of how quiet it sounds, Urbanalog are giving it a contemporary voice and doing their best to offer high quality work to their audience.� Work that I've decided deserves a generous slot in my musical library. --- Overall Rating: 4.8/5 --- What are your thoughts on this album? --- If you liked the album, you can now purchase it on iTunes, here! _ Suggestions for a future review? �Hit the author up on�Twitter (@rothsresidence) or via�e-mail (arnold.arteaga@allkpop.com)! � Note: This article does not reflect the opinions of allkpop, only of the author.