Notes

Sample Magic - SM153 - Abstract Hip Hop
SM153: Abstract Hip Hop is a fantastic new release from the artists Billy Woods, Moor Mother, and Q-Tip. The album is a great listen for any fan of underground hip hop, and is highly recommended. For more information on abstract hip hop, read on. This article was originally published in the March 2007 issue of Alternative Press. It was written by a fan of the genre, and is intended to be an unbiased and informative review of the album.

SM153 Abstract Hip-Hop

Sample Magic has released SM153 Abstract Hip-Hop, a sample pack that features soulful keys, jazz funk bass lines, and left-field electronica grooves. The sample pack has over 1.3GB of sounds, with a diverse range of genres to choose from. The lyrical content is another distinct feature of this collection. While the original hip-hop genres are more traditional and use conventional instrumentation, Abstract Hip-Hop eschews many of the conventions of the genre. Many artists in the genre use metaphors and symbolic word choice instead of visceral language, as well as unconventional beats.

Q-Tip

The first collaborative mixtape of the legendary Busta Rhymes and Q-Tip has arrived! The two rappers have been working together for over two decades and have released countless classics. "Thank You" and "Scenario" are just two of their collaborations. With the help of their producer, Jesse James, they've created a new album that combines old and new music.

While the album is still relatively young, it is a much more mature and polished release. The Jazz-infused production, while jazzier, is reminiscent of earlier work by the Tribe. Though J Dilla is a clear influence, the album is almost a Kamaal Fareed production. Raphael Saadiq and Norah Jones also make appearances on the album.

The rapper's ambitions are similar to Brathwaite's: he wants to bring the hip-hop perspective to the forefront of the art world. While speaking at a preview of Nina Chanel Abney's Untitled (FUCK T*E-OP), Q-Tip was also snapped with Wu-Tang Clan manager Sophia Chang. He's been active in the art world for quite some time, and he's definitely one of the most popular artists.

Billy Woods

Known as a perennial figure on the abstract hip hop scene, Billy Woods has collaborated with such legendary names as Vordul Mega, Armand Hammer, and the Super Chron Flight Brothers, but his solo releases are equally impressive. His first album in three years, 'Aethiopes,' is an eloquent reflection of the cerebral development of the abstract sound that influenced the hip hop community. During his tour with Moor Mother, he delivers a hypnotic mix of lyrical insanity that is unparalleled in his genre.

The album features the artist's signature sound and a wide variety of influences. Sample loops and field recordings are infused throughout, with bursts of saxophone solos completing the picture. While it is impossible to pinpoint a single track's influence on this album, there are a few moments that stand out, and "Hiding Places" is a highlight. Though the album is consistently impressive, it can sometimes feel a bit scattered.

Moor Mother

The new album from Philadelphia's Moor Mother, Black Encyclopedia of the Air, is an epic exploration of experimental hip hop that transcends traditional boundaries. The resulting sonic entanglement is a trip to new abstract heights that is sure to delight listeners of all musical tastes. In addition to bringing a new twist to the genre, Black Encyclopedia of the Air has many impressive innovations that set it apart from the competition.

The album opens with "Jazz Codes," which has an air of jazz-rock. But as the album progresses, the tone shifts to a darker, more melancholic feel, and Ayewa raps with AKAI SOLO, another stalwart of abstract hip-hop. The album's title track is one of its most memorable tracks, with its bleak, sombre tone.
Here's my website: