Instrumentalyst cover

Released 30 years ago

Instrumentalyst

Kool Keith · 1996

71 min · 17 tracks · hip-hop · alternative hip-hop · gangsta rap

A surreal blend of abstract beats and unconventional lyricism that challenges hip-hop norms.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • surreal soundscapes for exploration
  • dynamic progression throughout album
  • short tracks for varied energy
  • abstract beats for deep listening

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1996, 'Instrumentalyst' marks Kool Keith's transition into more experimental territory following his influential work with Ultramagnetic MCs. At this time, he was establishing his solo identity, delving deeper into abstract and psychedelic rap after the success of his debut solo album, 'Dr. Octagonecologyst,' in 1996.
Stylistic neighbors
MF DOOM· Del the Funky Homosapien· Aesop Rock

Tracklist

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

  • 1 3000 3:31
  • 2 Moosebumps 1:47
  • 3 Earth People 4:49
  • 4 Real Raw 5:34
  • 5 No Awareness 4:45
  • 6 Blue Flowers 3:16
  • 7 Technical Difficulties 2:57
  • 8 A Visit to the Gynecologyst 3:37
  • 9 Bear Witness (extended version) 6:45
  • 10 Dr. Octagon 4:35
  • 11 Girl Let Me Touch You 4:21
  • 12 I'm Destructive 3:17
  • 13 Tricknology 101 4:58
  • 14 Wild and Crazy 4:31
  • 15 Blue Flowers Revisited 4:38
  • 16 Waiting List 5:31
  • 17 On Production 3:01

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata