On
Cypress Hill's third album,
Temples of Boom, it seems as if all the blunts and bong tokes finally have begun to catch up with the group. Whereas
Black Sunday had been a rousing album ideal for moshing crowds,
Temples of Boom shows few signs of energy, instead feeling tranquil, sedate, and downright lazy.
Muggs' beats are more evocative than ever here, but rather than sounding invigorating, they sound disorientating, even a bit lulling (especially "Illusions"). Given
Cypress Hill's affinity for blazing up the bud, trippy beats aren't necessarily a bad thing by any means, but without any inspired rhymes to accompany his beats,
Muggs' efforts feel empty.
Cypress Hill III is a pale reprise of its excellent predecessors, and if you're a newcomer, you should steer clear of this one initially. Beyond doubt,
Cypress Hill and
Black Sunday are the albums to seek out -- there's nothing on
Temples of Boom that wasn't there, not to mention how those predecessors had great singles as well, something sorely missing here on
III. [The "clean" version of this album alleviates any profane moments.] ~ Jason Birchmeier