Don't Lie - Black Eyed Peas (A&M)

The Black Eyed Peas' second single from the Monkey Business album is a light, easy, summer day's tune. "Don't Lie" provides pleasurable listening, and it is hip hop that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Unfortunately, however, the Black Eyed Peas' past reputation for challenging, socially aware, progressive music is nowhere to be seen.

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In the wake of their all stops out dance-pop smash "Don't Phunk With My Heart," Black Eyed Peas have made a dramatic shift in mood and sound on "Don't Lie," the second single from the Monkey Business album. "Don't Lie" lopes along with a light, Latin-tinged beat while delivering a straightforward message about the harm caused by habitual lies. The gentle beats, melodious rapping, and pro-social message add up to a good song for a lazy, late summer day.

"Don't Lie" is likely to continue to frustrate the ranks of early Black Eyed Peas fans. It marks an even stronger progression toward the pop mainstream that began with their previous album Elephunk. On the positive side, this is approachable, family-friendly hip hop. The simple message in favor of truth-telling could find a comfortable home in programming produced for young children. "Don't Lie" will quickly find a slot at mainstream pop radio. Look for it to prolong the Black Eyed Peas pop hot streak and further cement their place among today's top pop artists.