Who's the biggest rookie currently gracing mainstream hip hop? Well, that would be the Southern white boy by the name of Bubba Sparxxx.
The release of Bubba's debut album, Dark Days, Bright Nights, marks the first release from rapper Timbaland's newly formed record label, aptly entitled Beat Club Records. Timbaland, who is well known for his distinguishably unique clubbish production style, once again delivers impressive beats for the seven songs he produces on this album. In fact, his beats are the highlight of this album, as Bubba Sparxxx fails to deliver lyrics that stick in the cranium. His rough southern style simply does not match the album's clubbish beats. In fact, he shines best on harder tracks like 'Bubba Sparxxx.'
The funky beat on 'Twerk a Little', when coupled with Timbaland's distinctive featured vocals (which far out shadow those of Bubba), make for the album's best track. The funk-laced, 'All The Same', produced by Organized Noize, provides the most infectious chorus. 'Get Right' has club hit written all over it as Timbaland produces yet another sizzling beat. 'Bubba Talk' is also an enjoyable track.
Beyond Timbaland's impressive beats, this album fell fairly short in my books. Bubba Sparxxx inability to provide distinctive vocals and/or lyrics results in an album that can be boring in places.
Be forewarned: If you do decide to pick up this album, just don't expect it to be as stimulating and impressive as his video for 'Ugly'.
Click here to buy the album or read CDNow's album review.
Troy Neilson