311 SOUNDSYSTEM

311: Nicholas Hexum (vocals, guitar, programming); S.A. (vocals); Tim Mahoney (guitar); P-Nut (bass); Chad Sexton (drums, percussion, programming).
311: Nicholas Hexum (vocals, guitar, programming); S.A. (vocals); Tim Mahoney (guitar); P-Nut (bass); Chad Sexton (drums, percussion, programming).
Though the group first gained national attention in 1996 for its MTV-friendly single, "Down," 311 has been honing its game since 1990. The band's infectious amalgam of reggae, hip-hop, and hard rock stylings has resulted in a sound unique to late-'90s popular music. Their sixth release, SOUNDSYSTEM, offers catchy rhythms and smooth vocals that switch between rapping and singing. However, despite the stylistic vacillations, the band always maintains an underlying musical philosophy.
"Can't Fade Me" pairs a funk-metal groundwork with hip-hop posturing. SOUNDSYSTEM's biggest surprise is its hat-tip to Santana, "Life's Not a Race," a track that features Latin percussion and tasteful guitar work. Though the majority of the lyrics address lighter issues, a strong message is delivered in "Evolution." The song is a powerful statement addressing whether technology has done mankind enough good to justify the harm that it does. 311's cover of "Leaving Babylon" by Bad Brains is a logical choice and fits in nicely with the group's style. SOUNDSYSTEMS's marriage of musical flavors is the proof that 311 is "down for the unity."

• Format: Vinyl