When the popular topic of "Underground Hip-Hop" surfaces for debate, there's sure to be one particular duo that never fail to top a "Top 10" list. That act goes by the name of Atmosphere. Their seventh studio album "When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold” is a Warner-distributed release, which the group have set goals, and intend to surpass all expectations again. MC Slug, and DJ/producer Anthony (Ant), put their genius together once more, to bring fans another episode of their extraordinary journey from selling CD’s from a backpack, to having “Limited Edition” numbers set at 20,000 units.

The new album draws an interesting concept from the title itself. Quite evidently more optimistic from their previous releases, this justifies the duo’s stance on the music industry in general, which appears more relaxed, and certainly more accepted. The Rhymesayers-signed band is previously known for their metaphor-type, and storytelling-based songs and the new album is set to offer the same. Ant is once again praised for his flawless-production, and creative direction towards the new album. When Life Gives You Lemons You Paint That Shit Gold, isn’t favourable amongst all fans, as the sound is clearly different from the earlier work with Murs, or “The Woman With Tattooed Hands”. Regardless, it’s the group’s highest selling album, and debuted at number 5 on the billboard charts, selling 36,000 copies in the first week alone!

Straight to the music, Slug deems it necessary to take a more vocal role this time round. Providing hooks in the form of singing on various tracks such as “You”, “Like The Rest Of Us”, and “Wild Wild Horses”, Slug either really doesn’t care that his singing isn’t fantastic, or feels far more comfortable expressing himself in this form. Does it work with the fans? A mixed reaction. It’s hardly the Slug we heard from “Trying To Find A Balance”, but certainly a more personal, and heartfelt persona that seems to appeal particularly to the female fans. Saying that, Slug continues to display why he is one of the most rated Underground rappers in the game. With liquid-like flows shown on “Puppets”, and “Glasshouse”, the stanza’s can easily be copied when bumping the album at parties, or even driving in your car.

Production and beat-wise, Ant has once again proved to be instrumental in providing excellence. A mixture and diverse selection of beats complement the various moods that Slug set’s on the album. “Waitress” is an epic about Slug’s daughter, and the imagery and beat combined produce what can only be described as a near first-hand encounter. “Skinny” is a metaphor based song, where Slug describes the likeliness of Pimp’s to Cigarette’s, using many impressive, and relevant comparisons throughout. However once again, hats off to Anthony who proves decisive in the songs’ final outcome.

I’m not sure When Life Gives You Lemons You Paint That Shit Gold”, tops my favourite Atmosphere releases, but it certainly breathes some fresh air onto a band that could have easily been caught in an “underground trend”. Fearless of experiment, Atmosphere prove once again they are a force to be reckoned with, and with the underground game becoming ever-so popular, they are without a doubt set to be shining on a world stage. Good release from the boys!

Hip-Hop Kings Rating: 4 out of 5 Crowns

Written By Ryan Maxwell

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