Released 20 years ago
A Piece of Strange
CunninLynguists · 2006
54 min · 16 tracks · alternative hip-hop
A dense tapestry of introspective rhymes and haunting melodies, blending alternative hip-hop with poignant storytelling.
Top tracks — play these first
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Since When — This track exemplifies the album's introspective nature, delivering sharp social commentary alongside an infectious hook that resonates with listeners.
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America Loves Gangsters — With its provocative lyrics addressing societal issues and media representation, this track stands out as a bold critique wrapped in catchy production.
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The Light — Closing the album on a hopeful note, this track encapsulates the journey explored throughout the record, merging thoughtful lyrics with uplifting instrumentals.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends intricate lyricism with strong production, creating a cohesive yet varied listening experience.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate interludes that provide thematic pauses, creating a reflective atmosphere throughout the record.
- The production employs layered samples and haunting melodies, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- introspective storytelling with depth
- haunting melodies that linger
- thought-provoking themes and reflections
- emotional interludes that pause time
Maybe skip if you
- prefer upbeat, energetic tracks
- want straightforward structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2006, A Piece of Strange was the third studio album by CunninLynguists, following their critically acclaimed album, Will Rap for Food. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their reputation within the underground hip-hop scene, showcasing a maturation in both lyrical depth and production quality.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Atmosphere· Aesop Rock· The Roots
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Where Will You Be? 1:03
- 2 Since When 4:01
- 3 Nothing to Give 3:30
- 4 Caved In 3:17
- 5 Hourglass 3:21
- 6 Beautiful Girl 3:24
- 7 Inhale (interlude) 2:02
- 8 Brain Cell 4:23
- 9 America Loves Gangsters 4:28
- 10 Never Know Why 3:51
- 11 The Gates 4:04
- 12 Damnation (interlude) 1:38
- 13 Hellfire 2:29
- 14 Remember Me (Abstract/Reality) 4:26
- 15 What’ll You Do? 2:43
- 16 The Light 5:29
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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