Gym Class Heroes
by Aroha Treacher
When I first came across indie/hip-hop band Gym Class Heroes, I thought they were going to be just another “one hit wonder”, but their latest album, As Cruel As School Children, puts a slightly different spin on things.
These guys have definitely got their own style. This is their third album release and it showcases all that being young is about.
They are funk/hip-hop meets pop, but with an alternative flavour that has an old-school rap style, very much like Run DMC.
Frontman Travis McCoy lets his sense of humour shine through in the lyrics. Expressing everything from the lurid, like having sex with a teacher, to internet phenomenon Myspace. And, of course, girls.
As Cruel As School Children isn’t the kind of album you’d expect from, say, a wannabe gangsta rap group; it’s more of a feel good album that has catchy hooks and quirky lyrics that work well together (with minimal swearing).
Of the 13 music tracks and two interludes, there were only two “dud” tracks. The interludes “Sloppy Love Jingle” are funny the first time you hear them, but next time through they will get the fast forward treatment.
Stand-out tracks include Shoot Down the Stars, New Friend Request and Viva La White Girl.
A strong high-school reject theme is not only present in the music but also in the album’s artwork. Hmm… do you think they weren’t the most popular guys in school? How times have changed.
If you’re a fan, you’ll love this album. And as for the uninitiated, As Cruel As School Children will be a pleasant surprise and a nice break from the usual thuggish rapper.
Rating: 7/10