Posted on 11/04/2009
It’s never a good thing to listen to an album with your face tightened, staring aimlessly at your boom box like something smells bad. Unfortunately, that’s just what I endured every time I listened to Ultraviolet, the debut album from Chicago rapper Kid Sister. On one hand, I totally understand the purpose of this recording as a dance heavy project perfectly suited for the club. But on the other hand, it is impossible to ignore the fact that not even Cee-Lo or Kanye West can overcome the album’s monotonous production and paper thin lyrics.

Kid Sister generated a buzz long before recording Ultraviolet, as she used her brand of club music to rock parties in the Windy City and beyond. Soon thereafter, Kid Sister went on tour with the aforementioned Kanye West, who reconnected with her to drop a verse on the album’s “Pro Nails.” What’s that song about? The hook says it all: “Got her toes done up wit’ her fingernails matchin’.” Umm, okay. As for West, he’s a monster with the beats, but he reminds us yet again that his lyricism needs a lot of work: “I be tippin’ them dancers, they be sayin’ I’m handsome, I was pretty before the dough, but now I’m just a man.” Awesome.

But it’s not all bad. The next song, “Daydreaming,” featuring Cee-Lo comes off a little better than its predecessor. The former Goodie MoB standout and current front man for Gnarls Barkley sings briefly, as Kid Sister vocally fantasizes about a crush. However, there are no standout qualities on the remaining songs, as they’re about partying, dancing, staying fly and, uhm, more partying. For those of you looking to get energized for the club, Ultraviolet is the perfect album for you. But for those who crave substance, run away from this recording as fast as humanly possible.

- Marcus Moore