Smack is the lead single from recent longplayer Bang for the Buck with a message for anyone with a penchant for “gangsta pop ringtone rap” – watch out, “you might get smacked!”
They’ve been in the business for years, but as Smack shows, Ugly Ducking haven’t lost either their ability to write witty lyrics or their ability to deliver those lyrics in uplifting, sing-a-long style that’ll have their typically baggy-jean, tour merchandise clad student fanbase tipping their trucker hats and throwing their hands in the air. It sounds much like the rest of UD’s material which means the release of Smack isn’t likely to attract many new fans.
B-Side Bob Your Head is a good enough reason for those who already possess Bang for the Buck to purchase the single since it doesn’t appear on the album. It is a lively ditty with its roots in funk music and a brassy melody that sits nicely alongside a typically droll lyrical flow and some choice cuts.
Both tracks come with instrumental counterparts making the release an essential for DJs as well as household hip hop heads.
Rating: 4/5
Link: www.uglyduckling.us
Words by: Sarah Chapman
