“P Reg Hondas” Demonstrates the Growth of Dr. Syntax and Pete Cannon’s Decade-Long Chemistry (Album Review)
Manchester, England, United Kingdom emcee Dr. Syntax returning after 3 years for his 10th studio LP. Known for co-fronting The Mouse Outfit, he would go on to drop his solo debut Self Taught in 2003 followed by 8 more full-lengths along with a mixtape & 4 extended plays. Personal favorites include the Pitch 92-produced Evidence, Killer Combo!, Elaborate Anoraks, Let’s Talk & Wallop. Coming off Crumbs back in 2021 however, I was completely supportive of Pete Cannon returning behind the boards for P Reg Hondas.
After the intro, “Control” begins with an intro reminiscent of the g-funk era talking about losing all jurisdiction once this sound hits the speakers whereas “Buffet” takes the trap route instrumentally confessing his destructive instincts. “Robot Problem” might be my favorite song here addressing the concerns of automatons possibly replacing humanity due to developments in AI technology over a boom bap beat just before “Maintain” discusses not buckling under pressure.
“Live in Stereo Sound” wraps up the 1st act of P Reg Hondas talking about turning venues into burial grounds whenever they pop out rockin’ shows while “That’s Your Lot” featuring Enlxsh kicking off the 2nd half linking up so they can talk about giving it your all when opportunity knocks at the door. “Heaven Above” gives off some soulfully funky vibes explaining how no one’s promised the pearly gates up in the sky while “Same Page” featuring Binbag Wisdom advises to move the way one already is.
The song “Rush” comes through with a psychedelic atmosphere talking about everyone nowadays always being in such a hurry & people consequently not seeing things clearly because of it while “Cool Off” aptly tries to calm down anyone his way who seems livid. “Benny Benny Benny” hooks up a boom bap instrumental talking about being the guy who’ll go distances others won’t & the closer “Subcultures Again” concludes the album in the form of a delightful successor to a track off Self Taught.
As much as I’d love for Dr. Syntax to hunker down with Pitch 92 throughout the duration of an entire LP considering it’ll be almost a decade since Evidence, I’d still consider P Reg Hondas an exciting comeback for him nevertheless & one I’d put above Crumbs. Both guests had moderate performances, but it’s still exciting to hear the chemistry between Syntax’ lyricism & Pete Cannon’s production grow this much in the span of 10 years.
Score: 8/10
