Urban Species

Urban Species is a British hip-hop group known for their unique blend of rap, jazz, and soul elements, creating a sound that stands out in the landscape of hip-hop music. Formed in the early 1990s in London, England, the group initially consisted of members Minty (Peter Akinrinlola), Toastie Tailor (Rodney Panton), and Kevin Christie (DJ Renegade). Urban Species distinguished themselves with their live instrumentation, thoughtful lyrics, and a fusion of musical styles that reflected the diverse cultural influences of their urban London environment.

The group first gained attention with their track "Listen," which showcased their signature style of smooth flows, jazz-inflected beats, and insightful lyrics. This track set the tone for their approach to music: a combination of rap with live, organic sounds, something that was relatively rare in hip-hop at the time.

Urban Species' debut album, "Listen," released in 1994, was a critical success and is often considered a classic in the UK hip-hop scene. The album featured collaborations with other artists, including MC Solaar on the track "Listen (Open Up Your Heart)," highlighting the group's international appeal and ability to blend different hip-hop styles seamlessly. The album's themes often revolved around everyday life experiences, social commentary, and personal introspection, set against the backdrop of their urban surroundings.

Their follow-up album, "Blanket," released in 1998, continued in a similar vein, melding hip-hop with soul, jazz, and funk influences. This album included the hit single "Spiritual Love," which received significant airplay and further established the group's reputation for crafting music that was both intellectually and sonically engaging.

Urban Species' music is notable for its live instrumentation, a rarity in hip-hop at that time. They often incorporated elements of jazz, soul, and funk, creating a sound that was both rich and accessible. Their lyrics were reflective and socially conscious, exploring themes of identity, culture, and the human experience in an urban setting.

The group's influence extends beyond their music. They were part of a wave of artists in the UK who were pushing the boundaries of hip-hop, infusing it with a distinctly British flavor and exploring new creative possibilities within the genre. Their approach to blending different musical elements and their focus on live performances set them apart and had a lasting impact on the evolution of British hip-hop.

After their initial success, Urban Species continued to be active in the music scene, although with a lower profile. They have been involved in various projects and collaborations, contributing to the richness and diversity of the UK's urban music landscape.

Urban Species' legacy lies in their innovative approach to hip-hop, their exploration of diverse musical influences, and their contribution to the development of a unique British hip-hop identity. Their music remains a testament to the creative possibilities of hip-hop as a genre and continues to inspire artists in the UK and beyond.