Plain Rap
They're back. In 1992, the Pharcyde emerged from the shiny debris of the West Coast G-funk era, and their style, presence, and originality gave birth to the left-of-center movement that's currently thriving in Cali, with  acts such asBlack  Eyed PeasandZion I. ThoughFatlip'sno longer a member, the three-man unit has a new album to remind the world that they're not dead yet. Their trademark lyrical and sonic silliness remains intact, but this time their sound isn't as erratic or zany as past projects. It's more bluesy, down-to-earth, or even somber. They still come with that laid-back boom bap, but they're older now, and have more mature concerns. As the title suggests, there are no special gimmicks or multiple personalities here: tricks are for kids. "Frontline," produced byShowbiz, finds them meditating on the melancholic aspects of life. Black Thought of theRootslends his organic vocals on "Network." The J-Swift remix of "Trust" is the first single and most  upbeat track on the album (fly vid, too). It's reminiscent of the hits Pharcyde are known for, such as "Passin' Me By," "Runnin'," and "Drop." They haven't lost the magic touch.--Roosevelt Franklin