Herald Rating: * * *
For the Compton-based protagonists in David LaChappelle's film documentary, Rize, dancing isn't something you do just because you're in a good mood. Those wild, seizure-like movements - nicknamed krumping - are the perfect release from life in one of the world's toughest neighbourhoods. Why take
your frustrations out by turning to crime when you can expel it in a bout of frantic, uninhibited rump-shaking?
Of course, none of this would happen without the right music. Enter the Talauega Brothers, dancers who have worked with Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Usher, Madonna and Christina Aguilera. Their aim was to put together a soundtrack that would honour the krumpers' insistence their art would not be commercialised so it seems weird they'd include an Aguilera ballad.
Elsewhere, the mood is gritty and upbeat, with most of the krump-worthy cuts from rapper Flii Stylz and friends. There's also a London-centric track from Dizzee Rascal. Tying it all together is a rousing selection of gospel and soul: Oh Happy Day by the Edwin Hawkins Singers, Amazing Grace by Alice Ridley and a fantastic, low-fi recording by the Blind Boys of Alabama.
None of it is as revolutionary as the dance but chuck this on and see where those butt cheeks take you.
Label: Silvascreen
