As U Were is a surprising direction for Lyrics Born (aka Tom Shimura), as he makes a move for the mainstream market. The past soul and funk-inspired hip hop remains on some tracks but is now heavily influenced by contemporary commercial pop and R ‘n’ B, 80s synths, and House. In terms of lyrical content, unsubtle rhymes about the pharmaceutical industry (‘Pillz’) or mawkish warbling on ballads like “I’ve Lost Myself” just don’t convince and indeed verge on cringeworthy. “I’m The Best (Funky Fresh In The Flesh),” for example, features not only an awful name but also dull prog rock guitar. For those who remember Lyrics Born’s past work, this is best avoided.
