For some people, even the mention of the words “hip hop” or “rap” is enough to put them off a new release. And in some cases, it’s completely understandable because it’s a genre that it’s very easy to get wrong – average MCs shouting over recycled beats about nothing in particular.
Thankfully, this couldn’t be further from the truth with ‘The TP’ EP from Too Many Ts. This duo bring a fresh approach to a genre that has recently sounded tired, rapping with wit and humour over backing music that owes more to old style swing and jazz than to modern pop tropes. It’s a combination that brings genuine vitality, an energy that apparently carries over ably into their live show (one which can be caught regularly – they are prolific on the London scene and beyond).
Too Many Ts are clearly a band who enjoy what they do, and revel in sharing that joy – either from the stage or from their EP. The lyrics are genuinely funny, a throwback to when rap didn’t take itself so seriously. In terms of highlights, opener ‘Boom Bap’ is solid, a great introduction to their blend of genres, with the pair rapping over funk guitar and a decent groove. Top song honours go to track two though, ‘It Ain’t Right’, which is laugh out loud funny in places and brilliantly constructed. Much like this EP as a whole.