Jamie T - Sheila (Virgin)
4/5
'Sheila' is a second time release for Jamie T, the first time being July 2006 before his album 'Panic Prevention' went Gold and deservedly won Jamie T 'Best Solo Artist' at this year's NME awards.
Jamie T's music is the epitome of modern day genre merging. Ingenious samples introduce a reggae-pop beat, consistent if a little hollow and mechanical. Hysterical sing-along observations, both analytically astute and lyrically outstanding, meet the beat with over pronounced cockney lingo. A Drum 'n Bass undertone hits during the satirical chorus and Jamie's likeable 'safe bruv' attitude is fresh and bouncy - exactly how white rapping should sound.
The B-Side is another treat from Jamie, and close pal and post-chav Lily Allen is appropriately invited to join in, singing her part in this culturally challenging musical drama. Cheeky and amusing backing vocals call over edgy drums and a dark bass line. The all male harmonies compete tensely and then drop to Lily's fantastically feminine permissive vocal. Although perhaps slightly disjointed, the B-side is engaging, dark and full of hectic beats and amusing sardonic bitter/sweet story line.
Both tunes, which are well crafted and rhythmic experimental, describes the kids we love to hate, dramatising street tales in an articulate and culturally accessible manner. After all, who reads books any more?
Watch the video to 'Sheila', starring Bob Hoskins(!), HERE.
Your Feedback
Login to post your comment