Ying Yang Twins
When the Ying Yang Twins dropped the irritating singsong sleeper “Whistle While You Twerk” a few years back, it seemed as if the Atlanta duo was destined for one-hit noveltydom. So its a bit of a shock to see that the Twins are among the most commercially viable rappers out there. The resurgence comes courtesy of an impressive star turn on “Get Low,” a collaboration with label mate Lil Jon that ranked among the summer’s most irresistible ass shakers.
That song’s popularity was widespread enough to merit a lackluster sequel, “Georgia Dome,” which can be found on the Twins’ third full-length. In small doses, the Twins can be a lot of fun, but the pair has a difficult time maintaining its insistent party vibe over the course of an entire album. Both members possess gravel-toned throats that shine like gold fronts, but their voices aren’t distinct enough to achieve a singular style. These Twins sound identical.
The inevitable cavalcade of guest stars offers welcome relief. Trick Daddy enlivens the proceedings on “What’s Happnin!,” a head-bobber with deft production that bounces like a basketball on newly poured pavement. Lil Jon makes an appearance on “Salt Shaker,” a throwaway party jam that almost approximates the chimerical chemistry of “Get Low.” When the Twins are left to their own devices, however, the results are far from memorable. “Grey Goose” is a watered-down ode to the vodka of the same name — if these guys aren’t getting royalties from the company, they need new management. “Hanh!” attempts to create a ghetto catchphrase, but the Twins are clearly retreading Juvenile’s “Ha!” The comparison is apt. OutKast aside, the Dirty South’s moment in the spotlight might be short-lived; its most famous spokesmen are already sliding into the monotonous same-old-same-old syndrome that continues to plague the once-promising New Orleans gangsta rap scene.
