SKIN
On SKIN, Ho99o9 make music that can change direction at any moment. Punk, rap and electronic noise collide, but the record remains recognisably the work of one group. Yeti Bones and theOGM provide its fixed centre. Their anger feels physical and direct, even when the backing seems close to falling apart.
Travis Barker's involvement does not turn the duo into a polished pop-punk act. The songs do have a clearer shape, allowing their outbursts to make a stronger impact. BATTERY NOT INCLUDED shows how an identifiable vocal line and unsettled, heavy backing can strengthen one another. Accessibility does not remove the sharp edge.
BITE MY FACE (FEAT. COREY TAYLOR) uses a larger contrast. After the aggression, the music leaves space for a quiet piano passage. The return of the harder voices makes the tension especially effective. Taylor's contribution suits the song without suddenly defining the entire album. Ho99o9 remain in control of their own chaos.
The other guests also provide useful differences. SLO BREAD (FEAT. BUN B) offers more breathing space through its trap rhythm. On SKINHEAD (FEAT. SAUL WILLIAMS), a controlled spoken voice stands against much wilder punk aggression. These are worthwhile changes of perspective. They make the album varied without allowing all its tension to disappear.
SKIN does require a listener willing to accept that constant unrest. Abrupt changes and rough sounds provide little comfortable middle ground. That is part of the approach, but it also makes the record demanding. The reward lies in the precision behind the apparent disorder. Most contrasts serve a purpose, and the guests strengthen the main voices. Ho99o9 make a broad, fierce album that holds its different sides together convincingly, rather than leaving its many influences to fight for space.
