Integrated Tech Solutions
Aesop Rock · 2023
64 min · 18 tracks · abstract hip-hop
A kaleidoscopic blend of intricate wordplay and avant-garde beats that challenge conventional hip-hop structures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Mindful Solutionism Start here — This track encapsulates the album's exploration of self-awareness and societal critiques through intricate metaphors, making it a standout example of Aesop's lyrical prowess.
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Kyanite Toothpick — With its dynamic beat changes and sharp lyrical observations, this track exemplifies Aesop's ability to weave personal narrative into broader cultural commentary.
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Aggressive Steven — This track features a compelling narrative structure that juxtaposes humor and introspection, representing the album's thematic depth while showcasing Aesop's signature storytelling style.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Aesop Rock's intricate wordplay and avant-garde production create a distinctive listening experience that rewards repeat plays.
What we noticed
- The album features a diverse range of beats, with tracks that shift from minimalist soundscapes to dense layers of instrumentation.
- Aesop Rock employs complex rhyme schemes and intricate wordplay, often packing multiple ideas into a single line.
- Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, eschewing traditional verse-chorus formats in favor of freeform narratives.
- The pacing varies significantly, with some tracks maintaining a rapid-fire delivery while others slow down for introspection.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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9/10
- 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
Known within its scene. 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
- dynamic progression with resolution
- thoughtful themes for deep reflection
- kaleidoscopic sound for active listening
- wave-like pacing for engagement
- intricate wordplay for detail-oriented minds
Maybe skip if you
- seeking immediate gratification
- prefer straightforward, single tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Continues Aesop's innovative sound, showcasing his relevance in the genre.
- Themes
- technological alienation· societal critique· abstract storytelling
- Career context
- Released on November 10, 2023, Integrated Tech Solutions marks Aesop Rock's first album since his 2021 collaborative project with Blockhead. As a veteran in the abstract hip-hop scene, Aesop continues to push boundaries with this release, exploring themes of technology and modern life in his characteristic dense lyrical style.
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Pigeonometry
A shift from abstract imagery to a direct commentary on urban life creates a jarring yet engaging juxtaposition.
Tracklist
- 1 The ITS Way 0:49
- 2 Mindful Solutionism Start here 3:34
- 3 Infinity Fill Goose Down 3:32
- 4 Living Curfew 3:51
- 5 Pigeonometry 3:32
- 6 Kyanite Toothpick 4:09
- 7 100 Feet Tall 4:13
- 8 Salt and Pepper Squid 4:10
- 9 Time Moves Differently Here 3:48
- 10 Aggressive Steven 5:18
- 11 Bermuda 3:17
- 12 By the River 2:38
- 13 All City Nerve Map 3:54
- 14 Forward Compatibility Engine 3:52
- 15 On Failure 1:59
- 16 Solid Gold 2:25
- 17 Vititus 4:08
- 18 Black Snow 4:53
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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