Artist: Black Eyed PeasAlbum: Monkey BusinessAlbum Highlights : “Pump It” and “Let’s Get it Started”

Welcome to the year of the monkey, according to the Black Eyed Peas. They stunned us with “Elephunk” and now they are getting down to business with their new album “Monkey Business”. The multicultural group sets the stage with hip-hop and funk, funk and more funk. The first track on the CD, “Pump it” is a cross between older songs “Hey Mama” and “Let’s get it started”. It’s the perfect song to get busy with. It’s a simple song about getting it on with the dancing and music. The track may be simple, but it’s not plain at all. The next track “Don’t phunk with my heart” was their first single off the album. In the track Fergie is singing about if the guy in her life will still be there if she took him home. In other words, will he be around for commitment. According to Will, Apl and Taboo, the answer is yes, they’ll be around. The deconstructed meaning of the song is whether the other will commit or not. Sexy lyrics with hip hop beats make the track simply irresistible and catchy. Don’t be surprised if you start singing the chorus after hearing it one time.

This album seems to take a different style from the previous one. The songs now are mellower with semi slow beats. Think of an album with most tracks similar to the taste of “Where is the love”.

The eleventh track “Disco Club” has a beat to get you dancing. A song based on getting into a club with the freaky ladies seems kind of hard not to enjoy. The twelfth track “Bebot” is funny and cool, if you can understand it. The track is in the Filipino language Tagalog. I’m sure a lot of Filipino fans will appreciate the pure Tagalog track. Now the meaning behind “Bebot” is actually a nickname for a girl in the Philippines. Bebot may sound kind of funny, but the songs lyrics are about life in the Philippines and the value of family. Yes, Bebot is a nickname for a girl, but the song also mentions what a Filipino really is and the women as well.

Overall, the album is different from the previous one, but isn’t that what it’s supposed to be? Yes, it is similar but the changes in lyrics and musical tones set the group onto a higher level. If you’re not into R&B and Hip-Hop this CD will definitely change your mind. As for the fans, this latest edition will not disappoint you. In fact, it will get you to get up and dance funky. So what are you waiting for? Get down with Monkey Business now.