California hip-hop group The Pharcyde, who recorded the unique classic Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde recently, reflected on their work in lieu of their latest effort. Plain Rap is the new national release and their third album to date. Romye "Booty Brown" Robinson of the group told MTV News that they have been working on material for the past five years. Last year the six-song EP, Testing The Waters was released as a white label to hip-hop circles. It was important for them because it let the public know that they were still around.

In 1996 they released Labcabincalifornia with the single "Runnin' Away" produced by Jaydee. After that release Fatlip left the group, and another album was recorded; the EP Karma. Delicious Vinyl, their label at the time could not distribute it which lead to Tre leaving the group. Robinson said that he is surprised that the record is out but that it is not what he wants to be "After we get done with this record, I wanna drop the real stuff." Three members strong, a different sound and a new CD should re-introduce The Pharcyde to hip-hop listeners.