Monkey Business

iTunes Review

The concept behind Monkey Business is to throw a little bit of everything into the mix: rap, R&B, reggaeton, club music, funk music, and of course, a heavy dose of rock ’n’ roll. The Peas continue their reputation for guitar-propelled party anthems with “Don’t Phunk With My Heart,” “Disco Club,” and the Dick Dale-sampling “Pump It.” Additionally, there are few groups more at home with global diversity, and the Peas have no trouble embracing the mellow vibes of Hawaiian folkie Jack Johnson (“Gone Going”), then shifting into “Bebot,” a Filipino rap led by group member apl.de.ap. Even as Monkey Business moves Black Eyed Peas further than ever from their hip-hop roots, “Like That,” “Feel It,” and “Ba Bump” show that they have not forgotten how to rock the rap faithful. The album bears the mark of virtuoso musical maestro will.i.am, but Fergie is its breakout star. Only she could have kept pace with Justin Timberlake for the breathlessly sexy “My Style,” while she turns “My Humps” into the kind of irritating-yet-undeniable dance hit that only comes along once in a career.