Dam Funk - Adolescent Funk

'Adolescent Funk' compiles 14 jams from back in Dam Funk's youth dating from '88 to '92. Compiled by friend and label boss Peanut Butter Wolf for Stones Throw records these 14 tracks give the listener a rare insight into Dam's early developments as a producer and recording artist. I was amazed by his re-invention of the future funk formula on Toeachezion and I'm equally amazed by the consistent quality of his early works. Present is Dam's gift for a sweet synth tone, awesome beat craftsmanship and a playful take on classic funk and soul lyrical themes... some of which are hilariously juvenile, especially 'I Like Your Big Azz (Girl)' and 'Sexy Lady'. Put that aside though and you've got 14 tracks of solid electrofunk that showcase some of Dam's lesser known talents, namely bass guitar and live drums. Dam' can really drum too. He kicks hard beats on 'The Telephone Call' borrowing from Prince's 'Tambourine' and performed with pure gusto. His bass playing is also pretty damn solid but it's the vocal element that'll really take you by surprise. He takes an enthusiastic shot at varying funk, soul and hip-hop styles, most of which suit him down to a tee. Some of the lyrical themes are a little juvenile but to me that's totally forgivable and totally hilarious, especially on 'I like Your big Azz (Girl)' and 'Sexy Lady' both of which mix the soulfulness of Steve Wonder with the overt sexuality of Controversy era Prince. I know I mention Prince a lot in this review but check it out, you'll notice the parallel's. If Toeachizion is Dam Funk's '1999' then 'Adolescent Funk' would be his 'For You', 'Prince', 'Dirty Mind' and 'Controversy' all rolled into one. Just imagine what his 'Purple Rain' is gonna sound like... I can't wait. Anyway, this is a fantastic insight into a great artist keeping those Future FUNK dreams alive. Gotta mention the sleeve photo's, that shit is amazing! There's one with Dam kicking the Jazzy Jeff look...well Bel Air.