INJURY RESERVE: JAWBREAKER FEAT RICO NASTY & PRO TEENS

by Calvin Paradise

2/6/19

Confucius said the beginning of wisdom is to call things by their proper name. As we live in a day in age in which blatantly racists acts are called “racially charged” and people seem frightened to say aloud what we all see is happening, it’s refreshing to hear the Phoenix collective Injury Reserve, with some help from Pro Teens and Rico Nasty, pull no punches in their full-throttle takedown of the fashion industry on “Jawbreaker”.

With rappers Stepa J. Groggs and Ritchie With a T, and producer Parker Corey hard at work on their forthcoming self-titled debut, “Jawbreaker” offers a sneak peek at why the trio is one of the most exciting and creative up and coming acts in the game.

Make no mistake, “Jawbreaker” is a slow burn, spending the first 200 seconds lulling you to sleep before exploding the tension that’s been subtly building the entire time. It’s a very clever and dynamic number that rewards repeated and patient listening. Lines like “notice that he does have the Rape 3000's on. And those are gonna cost you 'bout 450 dollars deadstock,” will grab your attention initially, but this is thorough dismantling of the exploitation and unethical behavior of the fashion industry as a whole. With a surgical aim and monk’s patience, “Jawbreaker” takes its time and makes sure to land all its punches.

Along with its blistering critique, the song is both hilarious and a hell of a lot of fun. Rico Nasty has a scene-stealing cameo, wrecking shit and adding to the chaotic energy of the track as she continues her hot streak.

Not only did Parker Corey create the kinetic, minimalistic beat for the song, but he also directed the music video. Billed as Mystery Science Theater 3000-style critique of a runway show, it’s the perfect set-piece to showcase the group.