The past two years have been a roller coaster for two-man team the Underground Kingz, better known as UGK. It was a mix of incredible highs. The most influential member, the charismatic and at times lyrically harsh Pimp C, had just been released from a long bid in prison. Underground Kingz’ 2007 self-titled album was released to fanfare and even more critical acclaim. The ride came to an end with the death of Pimp C in late 2007, putting the group’s future in question.
Surviving member Bun B has deemed “UGK 4 Life,” the final album for the legendary duo, encompassing all of the work Pimp C finished before he died. Though he may be here only in spirit, it’s clear that the legacy of UGK will still live on through this album.
Pimp C’s productive touches are all over this album with the signature jazz and country meets Roland TR-808’s sound that UGK has been known for since its debut almost 20 years ago. “Still On The Grind” is vintage UGK, and exemplifies the juxtaposition of Bun’s breed of street smart tales and Pimp’s explicit-and-rough outlook on life.
The best track on the album is Ronald Isley-assisted “The Pimp & The Bun,” a smoothed-out track that harkens back to the classic “Ridin Dirty” album. It contains the best definition of their relationship as well (as Pimp C says: “It’s the bun and the pimp/the steak and the shrimp/write my name across the sky in the blimp/it’s UGK”).
“4 Life” doesn’t break the mold or show the duo in a new light, which actually isn’t the downfall of this album. It is the quintessential album for the influential group, and I doubt that many die-hard fans will be disappointed. Pimp C starts the album by eerily saying that he’s “In 2009/light years away.” Hopefully the legacy of UGK will be around longer than that.
Score: 9/10