What’s up everyone? I’m new to the LPU and this will be my first forum post/reply. I saw this topic and had to add my two cents. My feelings about the new song mirror some of the stuff already brought up in this thread, but as we are all people with different opinions, tastes, etc. I’d like to give my thoughts.
First off, I like the song. It’s got good energy, the music is cool, the drums and guitars sound like drums and guitars, it’s longer than most LP songs, the tempo and musical changes are cool, and Rakim is on it. As mentioned before, I was surprised to see a feature on the song. LP has never had someone featured on a song on a studio release, but are we 100% sure this song will be on the new record though? Whether it’s on the new album or not, it’s really cool that LP got Rakim on a song. I’m a big Hip Hop fan, and anybody who appreciates Hip Hop can appreciate Rakim. Would I have liked to hear Mike on the track? Of course. But if you’re going to have anyone rap on a song you can’t go wrong with Rakim.
As I said above it’s refreshing to hear real instruments again. Not to get off subject, but Living Things was way too digital/electronic for me. The energy was there and the composition of most of it was cool, but sometimes it lacked the grit or raw feel of past LP stuff. On this song the drums are fast and loud. The guitars are almost perfect. I say almost 'cos the lead part before Chester starts singing is a bit weak in my opinion. I love the keyboard and synth elements, and I love how balanced they are in the beginning but then how they take over during Rakim’s verse. I love that transition. The change from the straight up Rock to the hard-hitting Hip Hop part with subtle guitars is clean. Someone earlier mentioned those instrumentals during that part being their favorite part of the song and I’d have to agree. I love the sounds used.
I like how the song is a bit longer than we’re used to from LP, but it’s a blessing and a curse. I like the changes that occur musically. The song is a roller-coaster energy-wise. But, I feel like the chorus gets a bit repetitive and the lyrics, although portraying how a lot of people can feel about certain things going on in the world, are kind of bland. I think Mike and Chester’s writing strength comes out when speaking on personal topics, but when they approach the socio-political stuff they’re more straight forward. I’m not saying the lyrics aren’t good, but they could be stronger. With all of that being said, the lyrics and vocals are raw and relatable and will definitely inspire some sing-a-longs.
Lastly, I see what people mean about the song sounding “demo-ish”, but I feel like it just adds to the raw feeling of the song. It’s less polished and refined, and that gives the song a more real vibe. It’s tough, it’s street, it’s kind of ugly, but it shows the true colors of the song and its meaning.
All in all, I’m digging the new song and I hope the album has more stuff like it. I hope it’s the only song with a feature though. I enjoy the idea of “outsiders” being on LP songs, but they should keep the list small and exclusive. LP, in my opinion, sounds best when they balance all the elements of their sound. I know the guys don’t aim to have a “sound”, but they’re kind of like Bruce Lee : “the style of no style”, “form without form”, “be like water”, etc. MTM didn’t have enough electronic elements (or enough Mike and Joe). LT had too much electronic elements. “Guilty All The Same”, to me has the strong blend that forms the foundation of earlier LP albums, but with the lyrical content and structural ideas of later offerings. They know what they’re doing.
Sorry for this really long post. I guess I wanted to make my first one count! haha… Take care everyone.
ZN
XXX
