Poetikool Justice

2008 LP Ground Level

Reviewed by Stu Wright

16 May 2008

Rising up from the western suburbs of Adelaide, ‘Poetikool Justice ’ are quickly making a name for themselves as the next big thing in Hip Hop / Rap around the local and, recently, national arenas. Their debut album ‘Ground Level’ is a mammoth offering - at a touch over sixty minutes in length, it provides a truly momentous canvas over which the boys paint their very colourful musical landscape.

Becoming more ingrained in your mind with each listen, this recording is very impressive for a first release. Poetikool Justice have produced a catchy, upbeat fusion of Hard Funk, Reggae, Hip Hop and Trip Hop which is immediately likeable and user friendly.

Musically, The PJ’s (as they are known to fans) work together well. The instrumental side of the band (Seanyd – Guitar, Adamb – Bass and Mitchay on Drums) provides the perfect backdrop for the lead duo of Dedz MC and Jahmin MC to impart their Social, Political and Environmental messages. Musically, they at times hit the heights of the Red Hot Chili Peppers ‘One Hot Minute’, with other obvious influences being Michael Franti, John Butler, Rage against the Machine, Sublime and 311 to name but a few. There’s always a smooth groove going on, with intelligent bass work and great walking throughout the entire album. Guitarist Seanyd constantly plays well, with a broad variety of sounds and approaches displayed in his musicianship. From heavy riffing to acoustic ambience, it’s all covered here. Good, solid performances that are layered nicely and have an unwavering feel and consistency that exudes confidence and ability.

Ultimately, however, what makes or breaks a group in this Genre are the MC’s, and most importantly what they have to say. On this level, Poetikool Justice has their other great strength; Dedz and Jahmin have a lot to say, and it is highly relevant not only to their lives but moreover, there is a message here for everyone. Accompanying the tasteful soft pack CD is a booklet, which even with such small writing struggles to contain everything the boys have to say on this release! This is what Dedz has to say, in his own words:

“Lyrically, our songs tend to be inspired by the space and beauty of the Australian landscape, the fact that, you know, we’re very lucky to have the time and the opportunity in this country to interact so fully and frequently with the natural environment. But on the other side of things, there’s a position here when you look at the political climate, and the sort of social issues that Australians are beginning to face and have faced, that makes me really question what’s right and wrong. Writing about these things from a personal perspective helps me to feel more positive, to understand these issues a little better and gives me a chance to voice an opinion” Dedz – MC / Vocals

And voice an opinion Poetikool Justice do. It’s not all as serious as you might think though, as all the tunes on this album always have a light, breezy feel to them, even during heavier moments – the fact that such fun songs carry some important messages is truly a measure of this group’s talent. It’s about what’s important to them, without preaching unrealistically. An impressive first offering to be sure, Poetikool Justice are definitely ones to watch…

for more information

Poetikool Justice