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Sick Puppies - Welcome to the Real World
"Welcome to the Real World" is the debut studio album and overall second release from alternative metal/hard rock band Sick Puppies. After a somewhat sludgy and punk-y debut EP, and before switching to a mainstream alternative rock/hard rock sound, Sick Puppies went funk/rap metal with their debut studio release. This album remains quite forgotten, although I've noticed that it has gotten a bit more attention recently.
Unlike their debut EP, "Welcome to the Real World" is primarily funk/rap metal with some grunge and alternative elements. Songs like the title track, 'Duck Bite', and 'Holding Out' showcase the combination of funk/rap metal and grunge, while songs like 'Every Day' and 'Nothing Really Matters' are more of a funk/alternative metal blend. The two acoustic songs, 'Time Will Pass' and 'The Way', are just pretty boring 90's alternative rock. One song that does use alternative rock well is 'Me Much Plenty' which mixes alternative rock and heavier grunge pretty well.
The best part of the album is the funk, and Emma Anzai is one killer bassist. Just listen to some of the funky bass grooves on 'Nothing Really Matters' and 'Holding Out', especially the bridge of the former and beginning of the latter. The latter is probably my favorite on the album, as the funktastic bass mixes well with the grungy guitar work. 'Something Different' is another favorite of mine, which is more of a fast grunge song than funk. 'Rock Kids' also has great bass work, although the rapping in the song can get a bit annoying after awhile despite having truthful lyrics about the pop music industry.
Overall, while the lyrics and vocals can get a bit cheesy, "Welcome to the Real World" is still a pretty great funk/rap metal album. Unfortunately the band didn't really continue with the funk metal, as I would have loved to hear a full-fledged funk metal album from them. If you enjoy funk/rap metal, then I highly recommend this album. Hope you found this review helpful.
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