Artist: Body Count Album: Murder 4 Hire

Year: 2006
Duration: 44:53

Breaking Down Body Count's Murder 4 Hire: A Critical Review

When it comes to the heavy metal and punk rock band Body Count, political correctness is not a priority. Fronted by rapper-turned-metalhead Ice-T, the band's lyrics often touch on controversial topics such as social injustice, police brutality, and violence, as well as showcasing their love for heavy music. Their 2006 release Murder 4 Hire was no exception, with songs like The Passion of Christ, Dead Man Walking, and Strippers Only raising eyebrows and sparking debate. In this blog post, we'll dive into the history of Body Count, the music style of Murder 4 Hire, the highlights of the album, and my personal critique of the album.

Body Count was formed in 1990 by rapper Ice-T. The band quickly gained attention for their fusion of heavy metal and punk rock with gangsta rap, a combination that was unheard of at the time. Their self-titled debut album was controversial from the get-go, with tracks like Cop Killer facing public backlash and even causing a boycott of their record label by law enforcement organizations. Despite the controversy, the album proved successful, peaking at number 26 on the Billboard 200.

Fast forward to 2006, and Body Count returns with Murder 4 Hire. The album marked a departure from their earlier work, in which they explored a wider range of topics, and instead, focused on heavier and more aggressive sound. The album featured plenty of heavy riffs and thrashing drums, blending metal and punk styles to create a frenzied environment.

While the album is not for the faint of heart, there are a few standout tracks that are worth mentioning. The Passion of Christ, is a track that continues the band's tradition of shock value lyrics, criticizing religion and questioning faith. Dead Man Walking is another highlight, a song that brings attention to the issue of prisoners on death row. The album's last track, You Don’t Know Me (Pain) is a memorable piece that features guest appearances by Slayer guitarist Kerry King and Slipknot DJ Sid Wilson.

In terms of the most innovative parts of the album, it's hard to pinpoint a specific moment, as the entire album is full of inventive ideas. Body Count's ability to blend elements of different genres and create something unique is what sets them apart from other heavy metal bands. However, the use of special effects, such as distorted vocals and soundbites sampled from news reports and movies, were a standout feature that added to the overall chaos and intensity of the music.

As for my personal critique of the album, while there's no denying the raw energy and intensity that the band brings to the table, Murder 4 Hire feels like a step backwards from their previous work. The lyrics, while still controversial, lack the depth and social consciousness that the band is known for. The album feels like a collection of angry rants, lacking the nuance and complexity of previous releases. While it may be entertaining for fans of the genre, Murder 4 Hire falls short of what the band is capable of.

In conclusion, Body Count's Murder 4 Hire is an album that is sure to divide listeners. From their controversial lyrics to their mix of heavy metal, punk rock, and gangsta rap, Body Count has never been a band that holds back. The album's highlights, such as The Passion of Christ and Dead Man Walking showcase the band's ability to push boundaries and tackle controversial topics. However, the album as a whole feels lacking in depth and complexity. Body Count has established themselves as a unique and innovative force in the world of heavy metal and I hope that they continue to push the boundaries of their art in the future.