Dizzee Rascal

Maths + English

[3.5/5]

Five years ago, every major media outlet was screaming that Dizzee Rascal was going to be England’s breakout grime artist. It took awhile, but his third album, Maths + English, could be his ticket into North American homes. Dizzee might have one of the thickest British accents you’ve ever heard, but that’s part of his charm: Especially when he decides to focus his lyrical prowess on subjects with substance (“World Outside,” “Excuse Me Please”) or when takes a critical look at contemporary hip-hop in “Hard Back (Industry)” and “Wanna Be” (featuring Lily Allen). However, he slips on the guest-heavy “Where’s Da G’s” and ego-boosting “Suk My Dick,” resorting to tired hip-hop clichés. But backing up his double-time vocals are sparse, bass-heavy beats full of electronic elements as dancefloor-worthy as they are a warm night with the rag-top down. (DEFINITIVE JUX) Ben Conoley