Fun Lovin' Criminals

by John Bush & MacKenzie WilsonMuch like G. Love & Special Sauce, the New York trio known as Fun Lovin Criminals hit the alternative airwaves with a blend of hip-hop beats, alternative style, and bluesy rhythms. The group was formed in 1993 by bassist Fast and drummer Steve, who had met in Syracuse while going to school; the pair formed a techno group but later moved back to New York City, where they hooked up with vocalist/guitarist Huey. FLC played around the area, and released their self-titled debut album in 1995 on the Silver Spotlight label. Signed to Capitol the following year, the group gained an alternative radio hit with their single Scooby Snacks, from Come Find Yourself. In 1997, the band played stateside dates as U2s opening act on their Popmart tour.Eighteen months later, FLC returned with 100% Colombian, their first for Virgin. Love Unlimited and Korean Bodega were red-hot hits across Europe and moderate favorites at college radio in the States, but FLC failed to gain critical acclaim in their native country. Trouble was brewing, for 1999 was a year of major changes for the Fun Lovin Criminals. Founding drummer Steve-O left the band in February and was replaced by ex-Bad Brains/Cro-Mags Mackie Jayson. The B-side collection Mimosa appeared, and the Loco LP, but FLC parted ways with EMI soon after. The label then issued the compilation Bag of Hits without their permission. The Criminals landed on Sanctuary for Welcome to Poppys, which appeared in September 2003, and they returned two years later with Livin in the City.