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EP Review: Secret Piss-"Urine Trouble"
by todd wadd We're all well acquainted with the rock/rap collabs of the early 90's, when it was still a nascent phenomenon that seemed to hold promise for a new genre that combined the best of both of these disparate worlds. Open minded music enthusiasts knew there was nothing intrinsically wrong with this synthesis, but skeptics couldn't help but ponder: who could really pull it off and make it sound good. The musings of Jim Yoshi Pile Up bassist Frankie Koeller and Substance Abuse's Eso Tre offer insight into where this shortlived excursus could have gone, fulfilling the promise that curious rock and rap fans alike once looked forward to with cautious optimism. As the title track "Urine Trouble" suggests, these guys aren't constrained by the obligatory stoicism that seems to characterize most forays into uncharted musical terrain. But their sense of humor is not a safety net: these guys mean business when it comes to laying down insightful lyrics and hard-hitting baselines. The rudiments of each of their respective genres prove to be the strong suit of both of these artists, and it is the simplicity of their approach that makes this EP a welcome divergence from the pretentions of self-proclaimed "innovators" that dominate much of today's music scene. The serene backdrop purveyed by the slow, emotional basslines we see in JYPU's melodies is substituted for a somewhat more aggressive strumming, which complements Eso Tre's intricate wordplay quite well. We are forced to consider the subtext that lingers beyond his allusions to urinary tract infections and bacteria laden bathroom stalls. One of the most memorable moments from this collection involves a cameo from Weapon-Shaped Records alumni E-Solo of Meanest Man Contest, who drops 24 bars of havoc on the track, "Really Pissed". One can't help guffaw at this diatribe against indy distributors and their conspicuous apathy towards the plight of underground artists. As Solo rants, "next time you're late on payin' the Wesh/I'mma pull out my prick and piss on your desk", we see that "Meanest Man" is much more than a stage veneer when it comes to rippin' mics. Other notable cuts include "Pissin' Away The Day" (which details the various distractions employed to make the work day pass quicker) and "Releasin' My Juice", a cut that celebrates the post-piss euphoria that follows 'draining the weasel'. JYPU and Substance Abuse fans may not be seen attending the same events (or having Chai Tea Lattes together) with any degree of regularity, but perhaps this EP will bring these two separate but equal worlds together for a barbeque in someone's backyard. Maybe world peace is hinged on our recognition of the fact that, despite our superficial differences, our piss is all yellow. In an era where our quest for solace prompts us to ascribe exaggerated importance to the work of musicians, it's nice to know the humble duo which comprises "Secret Piss" is out there, taking a leak on the establishment after drinking from a keg of natty ice. Piss has never been so golden. |
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