Grand Don't Come For Free, A [PA] - Streets (The) > Reviews > A Grand Dont Come For Free - Well Worth it

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Groundbreaking
Lyrics	Sublime
Quality and consistency of tracks	Flawless
Value for Money	Excellent

Advantages:	So Original  .  .  .  and addictive
Disadvantages:	If you dont like this type of music, dont buy it (not much else to say really)

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

The Streets second album after Original Pirate Material, this groundbreaking album has it all. From the Sombre Dry Your Eyes to the up beat and Classic Fit but You know it. Mike Skinner and Leo the Lion have done one of the best musical performances I have heard in a long time. I don't think there is one song that I don't think is good. That's why I am going to review this Album song by song rather than all in one. I think I better mention that this album is all about the story of Mike Skinners life, going through his love life, his gambling habits, his friendships and ultimately as the title mentions the Grand that he loses.

1. It Was Supposed To Be So Easy

Typical Tune that is reminiscent of their last album. Tells us about what he is doing in one day and he has achieved nothing!! We can all relate to that!! Great beat for this song and lyrically it is good. But of course the story begins here with Mike's money going missing - Who was to blame? Didn't really enjoy this to begin with but it grew on me. 4/5

2. Could Well Be In

Describing a night out with a girl that he likes - don't want to leave and wants to keep talking to her. Much slower than the previous track however still creates a mood that could be listened to over and over again. Once again The Streets pull out a cracking tune that everyone can relate to. Continues the story about his Grand by explaining the situation to his Girl. Great tune that is something that prior to this album I didn't think The Streets could do 5/5

3. Not Addicted

Better bass line with a much bigger impact from Leo the Lion. Describes Mikes gambling habits and whether he is going to win or lose, of course he is "Not Addicted". Great tune that gives a great story that most young guys probably relate to (I am not a real gambler so don't know) 5/5

4. Blinded by the Lights

My brother loves this tune - I couldn't really get into it but for him playing it over and over again. Explains a typical night out of him and his mates at a club and how they haven't turned up - Everyone has been stood up once. Content may not be ideal for younger ears (drugs etc). Good beat and another typical Streets tune 5/5

5. Would have it any other way

The eternal struggle - Stay in with you girl or go out and Party with your mates. What would you choose? Another Slower song but The Streets influence is clear. Leo and Mike give another great performance. Could listen to this tune over and over again if you wanted. 5/5

6. Get Out of My House

Arguments with your Girlfriend - It was never your fault but they still have a go!! Good beat and good tune, with typical Streets change of beat in the middle. Didn't enjoy this as much as the others, normally skip this tune out to be honest - not as good as some others but still great tune 4/5

7. Fit But You Know it

Probably the best tune on the Album. Holiday partying and holiday girls - Quicker tune and typical up beat and addictive Streets tune. The video (sorry not on the album) was great and I can imagine it every time I listen to it! 5/5

8. Such a Twat

Probably the morning after the night before - Feeling bad about what you have done and realising the consequences. The way in which the track is integrated with a phone call is quite extraordinary. 5/5

9. What is He Thinking

The story takes a sinister turn. What is going on between Mikes mate and his girl? Didn't really like this tune - typical beat but hasn't really got any proper place in the album I think. Integral to the story of the album but not that good. 3/5

10. Dry Your Eyes

The best tune that the Streets have done …. That's not their typical song. The end of a relationship is summed up perfectly in this song, slower sombre and full of emotion Brilliant 5/5

11. Empty Cans

It's all about Friends and letting go. The story is finished and everything is almost back to normal - Everything works out in the end …. If you want it to. Good tune and although its long is still very easy listening. 5/5

The whole album offers ups and downs that have been produced perfectly, giving 50 minutes of pure brilliance. Typical Streets songs mixed with a new brand of British classics.

What makes a good album? If you do not want to skip songs and end up listening to the whole album. This album comes closest to that than any other.

You will like this if you like:

The Streets (obviously)
Roll Deep Crew
Kano