GETO BOYS”Till Death Do Us Part” Rap-a-Lot/Priority*...

GETO BOYS

“Till Death Do Us Part”

Rap-a-Lot/Priority

* 1/2

The notorious “Cop Killer” seems tame next to “Crooked Officer,” the Geto Boys’ hate-filled warning to police against brutalizing ghetto blacks. But actually, it’s one of the milder songs on this startlingly violent album.

This Houston rap group, long dedicated to shock, has been principally known for its mean-spirited sexism. There have been violent songs too, but not quite like these. The Boys hit a low point with “Murder Avenue”--inspired by serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer and describing a “Psycho”-like killing of a woman--which is as vulgar and vicious as anything ever recorded. “Six Feet Deep” and “Murder After Midnight” aren’t too far behind.

These songs aren’t sordid satires using humor and excesses to make a point. These guys are dead serious about all this. This is an angry, waaaay- over-the-top album, full of ugly images of ghetto life and savage commentary against women. It appeals to the basest instincts, inviting you to tap your feet to maiming and mayhem.

While the album is definite fodder for pro-censorship forces, some of the material is right on. Technically, it features riveting rapping and some great beats. There’s also a song, “Street Life,” that’s a poignant expression of the hopelessness felt by many ghetto residents. But it’s ultimately more repulsive than fun.