Music review: PNC - Bazooka Kid 

I was quite intrigued by PNC's latest release, Bazooka Kid, before I even had the chance to put it on.

This was mainly due to a rather defensive press release about PNC's decision to build the album on various sounds that you will recognise from the 80s.

What PNC rightfully points out to so-called hip hop traditionalists who might rubbish such a move, is that hip hop is about a feel, a personal expression, and most importantly, there should be no rules.

In tearing up the rule book, the Dirty Records camp has presented a unique and very interesting album. And I should make one point very clear: Just because inspiration and samples have been taken from the 80s does not mean you will feel like you have suddenly walked into a bad high school reunion.

The sounds of the 80s era serve remarkably well to create a melodic feel throughout Bazooka Kid. Rarely, however, do the producers give in to the temptation to break out the electric drum kit. Crisp snares and banging drums help to ensure a hip hop feel is kept, despite this rapidly different backdrop.

PNC continues where he left off with his debut Rookie Card in delivering music that, while holding its integrity, does not take itself too seriously and invites the listener to have some fun. However, like Rookie Card there are some serious moments thrown in amongst the party tunes. It's quite surprising how well a tale of one girl's downward spiral due to drug addiction fits in between two relatively upbeat numbers.

Other topics of discussion include growing up as a "halfcast" in Palmerston North and a light hearted tale of running into fans and detractors on a night out.

PNC's proficiency as a story teller and slick one liners, along with a unique backdrop, make Bazooka Kid well worth a listen - a standout album in an increasingly paint-by-numbers hip hop world.

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