Having explored the depths of 90s Hip Hop, it can be hard for records to have an impact on these matured ears. Keen not to pass by The UMC's warm and friendly tone, I've stuck with Fruits Of Nature for a fair few spins. Its struck me as one I could have easily adored if discovered earlier on the journey. Leaving the golden era behind, moving boldly into the Jazz Hop era, this complimentary duo capture the essence of a colorful scene with questions as to how its 91 release fits into the tapestry of influences. I've heard them mentioned in plenty of rhymes, possibly listened to it decades ago but opening track One To Grow On really caught my ear this time.
Its the cream of the crop, with righteous rhymes and a bouncy beat, the pair pack positive messages of personal growth into its Jazzy groove. Devoid of cursing, the record plays with an uplifting tone, two youthful voices with heads held high, aiming for a thoughtful impact on their audience, given the lyrical content which rarely deviates.
Fitting snugly into the era, cadences and rhyme structures entertain with competence, perhaps lingering in Guru of Gang Starr's shadow on occasion. Producers Haas G & RNS line up temperate percussive grooves with colorful instrumental loops. Warm, often sunny, Jazzy and Soulful in nature, halve these track play a cut above the norm. The other half getting a touch tired on its repetitious nature. A few flashes of the "phunky fresh" vibe from Cypress Hill's early sound pass by too. All in all a fun listen, a solid record that possibly held more impact on the scene at the time of its release.
Rating: 6/10