Newham Generals: Generally Speaking

Anyone concerned about the ongoing commercialisation of grime artists should take consolation in this long-delayed debut from MC duo Newham Generals. Released on Dizzee Rascal's Dirtee Stank label, it remains true to the scene's underground roots, with D Double E and Footsie brandishing machine-gun rhymes and typically subterranean bass frequencies, as they veer from fearsome hip-hop grooves ("Movin") to gleefully tinny rave-ups ("Head Get Mangled"). Sadly, the lyrics don't bear close inspection, channelling Rascal's braggadocio and disaffection without his wit or sophistication, and settling for rampant misogyny on the horrifically titled "Bell Dem Slags".