Hoopla
Hooplais the second solo album for Speech, the former leader ofArrested Development. With this set he fuses hip-hop beats and rhymes, the funky bass and ensemble vibe ofSly & the Family Stone, and the soulfulness ofStevie Wonder. OnHoopla, Speech's inclination toward sociopolitical commentary--exemplified by the sloganistic "Ask Somebody Who Ain't (If U Think the System's Workin')" from his solo debut,Speech--makes way for introspection. On "Clock's in Sync with Mine," he likens himself and the subject of his affection to "two peas in a pod" and drives the spirit of the tune home with a joyously funkyParliament-style ending. The sensuous "Real Love" recallsMarvin Gayewith its smooth and soulful rhythm track and delicious backing vocals. Halfway through the set Speech asks a rapturous audience, "Are you still with me?", and with this deeply funky and engaging album the answer is a resounding "yes."--Michael Wells