Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz

Kentucky Funktified
by: tom reiter

On their first major release album Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz, Nappy Roots serve up a plate of some southern hospitality and originality. A mixture that has hints of Cash Money Millionaires, Outkast and a little Goodie Mob for good measure, yet maintains its own Kentucky-fried flavor.

Comprised of six members, Nappy Roots originaly had its start on the campus of Western Kentucky U. And as their name implies, they're all about sticking to their roots and not selling out on the latest Hip-Hop fads. W,C&G is a peek into the hustlin', country-bred lives of these six men.

From start to finish, Nappy Roots present an album that is down to Earth, energetic, and as smooth as grits greased up in lard. W,C&G hits all the basic urban subjects, hustlin', being broke, women, weed, and rides, but definitely not in the same overused ways that have gripped Hip-hop of late. Highlights include the playful "Headz Up," the soulful "Po' Folks," and the bouncy "Sholiz."

Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz paints a picture of optimism and contentness that Nappy Roots find in their lives, even though it may sometimes be a struggle. And they convey it well enough for the listener to imagine being a part of it, while making it an enjoyable listen.