Album Review: "I Can't Stand The Pain Tic Tok" by Lorenzo
Lorenzo’s 1992 release, I Can’t Stand The Pain Tic Tok, is a hidden gem that blends Funk/Soul with Hip Hop and dips its toes into RnB/Swing and New Jack Swing. Released under Polydor and Alpha International Records, this album might not scream mainstream hit, but it sure knows how to groove. It’s one of those records where you can almost feel the sweat on the studio walls from musicians laying down tracks thick with rhythm and emotion.
The standout here has gotta be the title track, “I Can’t Stand The Pain (Extended Version).” Man, this song just pulls you in. The bassline hits like a heartbeat—steady yet emotional—and Lorenzo’s vocals sit perfectly over the top. There’s something raw about his delivery; he’s not trying too hard to impress, which makes it all the more real. You believe him when he sings about heartbreak—it feels lived-in, not manufactured. Plus, the extended version gives room for some killer instrumental breaks. That sax solo? Chef’s kiss. If you’re into music that lets itself breathe, this one’s for you.
Then there’s “Tic Tok,” which flips the vibe entirely. Where “Pain” leans heavy on soulful longing, “Tic Tok” brings the bounce. Think crisp drum machine beats paired with funky guitar licks—it’s got that New Jack Swing swagger without being overly flashy. This track sticks because it’s playful but sharp. It reminds me why early '90s production was so innovative; everything felt fresh, like artists were still figuring out how far they could push sounds. And honestly, who doesn’t love a good metaphorical clock ticking away while the groove keeps moving?
One thing I’ll say about this album—it’s not perfect. Some parts drag slightly, and if you’re looking for lyrical depth beyond love and loss, you might come up short. But what it lacks in polish, it makes up for in authenticity. It’s like hanging out with an old friend who tells great stories even if their jokes don’t always land.
Looking back at I Can’t Stand The Pain Tic Tok, it’s kind of wild how timeless it feels. These genres are having a resurgence now, decades later. Maybe Lorenzo knew something we didn’t—or maybe he was just making music he wanted to hear. Either way, it’s worth revisiting. Oh, and fun fact? Listening to this album somehow makes traffic jams less annoying. Not sure why, but hey, life’s full of mysteries.
