Computer Cooties cover

Released 16 years ago this October

Computer Cooties

Busdriver · 2010

51 min · 15 tracks · hip-hop

An eclectic mix of rapid-fire lyrics and experimental beats that challenge conventional hip-hop norms.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Computer Cooties — This title track encapsulates the album's theme of digital alienation with its frenetic pace and witty commentary on modern relationships.
  • →
    Coon Talk — In this track, Busdriver confronts racial stereotypes with sharp humor and incisive lyrics, showcasing his ability to tackle serious issues through an engaging lens.
  • →
    Thick Enough — The opening track sets the stage for the album's chaotic energy while displaying Busdriver's intricate rhyme schemes and rapid-fire delivery.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

Busdriver's eclectic style and complex lyrics create a distinctive sound that stands out in alternative hip-hop.

What we noticed

  • The album features a rapid-fire delivery with dense, intricate lyrics that often shift topics unexpectedly.
  • Several tracks, such as 'Computer Cooties', utilize abrupt transitions and layering of sounds, creating a collage-like effect.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

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

  • steady pacing for focused listening
  • abstract lyricism for deep thought
  • quirky themes for playful exploration
  • consistent energy throughout the album
  • short tracks for quick engagement

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking straightforward, predictable songs
  • prefer longer, immersive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time Busdriver released Computer Cooties in 2010, he was already an established figure in the underground hip-hop scene, following his acclaimed album Jhelli Beam from 2009. This album marked a continuation of his avant-garde approach to rap, further solidifying his reputation for blending complex wordplay with genre-defying production.
Stylistic neighbors
Aesop Rock· MF DOOM· Shabazz Palaces

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Thick Enough 4:34
  • 2 Computer Cooties 3:07
  • 3 Man Baby 2:49
  • 4 Encyclopedia Wand 2:53
  • 5 Unibrow 3:35
  • 6 Deer God 3:32
  • 7 Beats Way Sick 4:00
  • 8 ENDGame (Busdriver remix) 3:52
  • 9 Split Seconds (Modseleftor remix) 4:45
  • 10 Will He 3:02
  • 11 Flesh Glove 3:02
  • 12 Speak Up 1:39
  • 13 (In) Reverse (Busdriver remix) 4:04
  • 14 Coat of Arms (Busdriver cover) 3:28
  • 15 Coon Talk 3:11

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata