aaamusic | On 03, Oct 2011

One of the most bizarre mixtures around, Greneberg is a trio of rappers consisting of label mates Alchemist, Oh No & Roc Marciano who’ve teamed up for a one off E.P. Alchemist & Oh No have previously worked together under the name of Gangrene, whilst Marciano released his acclaimed solo album Marcberg last year. So yeah, if you aren’t confused already that is where the name stems from; Marcberg + Gangrene = Greneberg, apparently.
As far as the EP goes, it’s just a weird combination that never really takes off. Boasting an unconventional jazz infused sound, the album is guilty of being over-produced at times, there is no defined sound from the EP and weird news-style voiceovers plague the record, particularly in Sewer Gravy. The producing is terrible throughout the album too, trying to absorb a New York jazz style and encompass it into a rap album is a crap idea and the idea should’ve been thrown out during the first label meeting.
Whilst the self-titled EP is a mixed bag, some of the stuff Greneberg has recorded does work. Jet Luggage takes a minimalist and repetitive approach, but the repetition works and you can really get into the track. Momma Told Me works largely for the same reason, there is no need for giant saxophone solos and sticking to a straightforward linear pattern of rapping over music is more effective than throwing in ear-drum destroyingly languid interludes.
I must admit Greneberg isn’t really my cup of tea, without a defined sound or theme the tracks are hard to distinguish between and they fail to offer the same personality major US rap or UK grime has to offer. Elements of Greneberg’s work are impressive but to me the EP sounds like a weeklong project than yielded below average results. Fans of New York style rap, experimental urban music & D12 might get a kick out of this, mainstream rap fans probably won’t though.

Author:Tom Crowther