Title: I Am Chipmunk
Artist: Chipmunk
Release date: 12 October 2009
RRP: 11.99


I Am Chipmunk Review:

Tottenham MC Chipmunk made his name on the London grime scene, but going on his debut album I Am Chipmunk , this talented young rapper has self-confidence in Jay-Z proportions. "God told me I'm the best", he raps on the opening "Saviour", as operatic voices chorus grandly in approval. It's true, though, that while Chipmunk--real name Jahmaal Noel Fyfe--might still be deep in his teens, he's got a ear for writing crossover pop-grime with the mainstream appeal to make an impressive dent in the charts. "Chip Diddy Chip" and the ska-tinted "Diamond Rings", featuring an earworm chorus from female vocalist Emeli Sande, show off Chipmunk's easy charisma and rapid-fire MCing. Deeper into I Am Chipmunk , though, our 18-year-old host takes care to show off his range. "Lose My Life" is a trance-tinged pop track featuring fellow chart-toppers N-Dubz, "Man Dem" finds Chipmunk and Tinchy Stryder trading verses on a vintage grime rhythm, and the likes of "Dear Family" and "Role Model" prove our young MC knows to balance ambition with a little humility.-- Louis Pattison