Concrete Jungle is a good example of a very musical rap CD that isn't remarkable but grabs your attention with its attractive sound. King Tech is the one who can take credit for the album's appealing and high-tech sound -- as half of the early-'90s duo
Sway & King Tech, he handles all of the producing and arranging and programs all of the synthesizers and drum machines. Although Sway is a competent rapper, most of his lyrics are run-of-the-mill boasting fare; it's Tech's sleek production that makes you take notice of "Future Source," "Let Me See You Move" and "In Control." However, the Northern California duo does get into sociopolitical territory on "Time for Peace" and the title song. Tech isn't in a class with
Dr. Dre or Mantronik, but the album makes it clear that he knows his way around a studio.
Concrete Jungle should have made Tech well known as a hip-hop producer, but surprisingly, the disc was far from a big seller. ~ Alex Henderson