Rhymesayers US Vinilo y CD

Review: Aesop Rock has long thrived on twisting the ordinary into the uncanny, and his latest full-length after 2023's irony-packed Integrated Tech Solutions hears him deepen that fascination. Examining the unseen mechanisms that guide daily life - dream logic, half-formed memories, fleeting emotions - he now blurs the lines between perception and reality with densely packed verses and meticulous self-produced beats. A brooding, cinephilic album recalling the atmospheric street wiles of filmmakers like Wong Kar Wai, the playful 'Send Help', contemplative 'Movie Night' and dusky 'Black Plums' chart strange emotional terrain, brought to life through warped sonic forensic architectures and sharp lyrical precision. Joined by Lupe Fiasco, Armand Hammer, Hanni El Khatib, Open Mike Eagle and Homeboy Sandman, the album pivots constantly, driven by intuition but grounded in detail Speaking on the record's emphasis on public bareness, Rock remarks on 'Checkers', a song "about the neighborhood outside your home being the great leveller. You can't show up feeling one way because the world will show you otherwise."

Review: The long-awaited sequel to Black Star's classic debut, No Fear of Time, showcases bursts of inspired lyricism and highlights the duo's evolution as artists. Yasiin Bey (fka Mos Def) and Talib Kweli continue to reflect on the passage of time, weaving their signature references to Black culture with contemporary relevance. In a world grappling with social issues, their return feels timely, as they channel righteous indignation into cathartic moments, especially on tracks like 'So be it' and 'Yonders'. While some of the chemistry from their youth has shifted, there are still standout moments where their interplay shines. With Madlib's eclectic production guiding them, the duo explores varied sonic landscapes, from the energetic shuffle of 'So Be It' to the jazzy vibe of 'Supreme Alchemy'. As Black Star continues to build on their legacy, No Fear of Time resonates with a thoughtful maturity, inviting listeners to reflect on their journeys through hip-hop and beyond. While its difficult to reach the heights of their debut, it certainly may surpass it to many.

Review: After a long hiatus from solo projects, Kurious returns with Majician, an album that cements his legacy as a top-tier lyricist. Known for his 1994 debut A Constipated Monkey. Kurious delivers a fresh yet familiar sound on this new release. Produced by Mono En Stereo and executive produced by the late DOOM, Majician is a masterful blend of intricate wordplay and reflective storytelling. Tracks like 'Eye of Horus' showcase Kurious' ability to effortlessly navigate complex beats with insightful rhymes, while 'Separation Anxiety' delves deep into personal themes through sharp lyricism. 'Par For the Course' revitalises classic drum breaks, bringing a nostalgic yet innovative touch to the project. Majician is more than just a comeback; it's a powerful reaffirmation of Kurious' skill and dedication to the craft. The album's meticulous production and introspective content highlight Kurious as an MC who has not only endured but evolved.