Personnel: Tim Armstrong (vocals, guitar, keyboards, synthesizer, bass guitar); Gawtti, Ganxsta Ridd, Paul "Ganxta Ridd" Devoux, Godfather, Rob "SR" Aston, Baby Down (vocals); Dave Carlock (guitar, organ, keyboards, synthesizer, bass guitar, Theremin, background vocals); Gemi Taylor (guitar); Jennifer Tefft (flute); Dave Holden (saxophone); Rich Graiko (trumpet); Victor Ruggiero (Farfisa, Wurlitzer organ); Matt Freeman (bass guitar); Travis Barker (drums, percussion, loops); Scott Abels, Brett Reed (percussion); Carlos Paucar (programming); Nicky C. (drum programming); Billy Jam (sound effects); DJ Die ( Daniel Robert Kausman) (scratches); Richard Stites (background vocals).
Additional personnel: Rakaa, Sen Dog, B Real.
Audio Mixer: Neil Pogue.
With the exception of the lead singer, Transplants is composed of ex-members of Rancid and Blink 182. The band's sophomore release HAUNTED CITIES straddles the line between punk, rock-rap, and alternative pop. The latter is best epitomized by "Gangsters and Thugs," a tune that sounds like it could have appeared among outtakes from Beck's ODELAY.
However, this album points mostly in the direction of a punk revival, only with crunchier guitars, heavier vocal rants, and chunkier drum beats. For example, "American Guns" mixes Shane MacGowan-style vocals with messy guitars and a driving bass pattern. But just when you think you've pigeon-holed the group, Transplants switches gears again. On "Hit The Fence" the band combines Beastie Boys-influenced rap with a menacing piano motif. The last track on the album, "Crash and Burn," even uses Afro-Cuban piano riffs. Featuring guest vocal performances by hip-hop stars Sen Dog and B. Real (from Cypress Hill), this release is sure to remain a favorite with those who love to hear genres combined freely and without apology.
Professional Reviews
CMJ (No. 920, p.5) - "Punk and hip-hop have a lot in common, and few bands have bridged this gap so effortlessly."
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