Focus Group "EP" Review

Disclaimer: I am in no way qualified to be reviewing music. I'm just a guy with a blog and a passionate, debilitating love for music.

I'm going to just say it: Focus Group is something that is best experienced live. Distilling their show into a passive, audio-only medium is almost unfair. Their EP (titled EP) is a subdued version of the group and while it comes together very well in a few areas, lacks the personality of their very entertaining live show.

If you are unfamiliar with Focus Group, then the first track "Very Truly Yours" will determine whether or not you listen to the rest of the songs. An interesting if low-key collection of brass, synth, and vocal sampling, this track is preparing you for what's to come.

The majority of the release keeps to this formula of downbeat, intelligent music. Even if somewhat minimal synth-based brass-infused music isn't usually your cup of tea, you will be nodding your head along with the beat. This is most true with the second and fourth tracks. Still, I would like to see a little more variety in this release to show off the groups talents.

Like I said, a fan of Focus Group's live show and I love their more upbeat songs. Luckily, smack dab in the middle of the EP is "White Folk is Freaky". This track is right up my alley and expect many others' as well. Funny, well-used samples combined with a breakbeat feel really make this one stand out. This track provides a great window into the personality, talent, and humor that make Focus Group a must see instead of a must hear experience.

Be sure to check them out live with Falcon Buddies on January 29th at Triple Crown.