(hed)pe: Evolution review

Evolution is defined as the gradual development of something, especially from a simple to a more complex form. (Hed)p.e. resonates the term \”evolve,\” experimenting musically with each new album. The band has evolved even more with the release of their upcoming album, Evolution. Evolution is a mix of metal ala Black Sabbath and classic reggae beats. It\’s great to see a band, especially one that has been around for almost 20 years, branch out and try something different on an album. Opening track, \”No Turning Back\” starts out with a bongo like drum beat, and then the metal sound kicks in. The beginning verse \”before you change the world, you got to change yourself\” is the perfect line for the band as they evolve musically. \”Lost in Babylon\”, \”Jump the Fence\”, \”No Tomorrow\”, and \”One More Body\” take the listener back to the classic g-funk sound (Hed)p.e. created on earlier albums. \”2ManyGames\” resembles the classic rock sound in the vein of Led Zepplin and \”Never Alone\” has a great metal sound mixed with hip-hop. Evolution transitions musically with the track, \”The Higher Crown\”, a short progressive rock interlude. The final three tracks \”Nowhere2Go,\” \”Let It Burn,\” \”Hold On\” incorporate reggae and funk style beats. (Hed)p.e. is one of those few bands that are not afraid to take a chance and experiment with different sounds, which is why they have been around for almost 20 years. Evolution is the perfect album that showcases the strengths of the band, and should please both old and new fans. Rating: 10/10 -Philip Coon