Jhelli Beam cover

Released 17 years ago this June

Jhelli Beam

Busdriver · 2009

50 min · 14 tracks · hip-hop · alternative hip-hop · underground hip-hop

A kaleidoscopic blend of abstract wordplay and eclectic beats that challenges the norms of hip-hop.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with unexpected shifts
  • abstract wordplay for curious minds
  • for concentrated listening
  • peaks and valleys of energy

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking straightforward, catchy tunes
  • prefer consistent pacing throughout

Where this album fits

Career context
By 2009, Busdriver was already an established figure in the underground hip-hop scene, having released several albums since his debut in 2002. 'Jhelli Beam' marked a continuation of his artistic evolution, following the critically acclaimed 'The Weather' from 2005 and showcasing his unique narrative style and lyrical complexity.
Stylistic neighbors
Aesop Rock· MF DOOM· Shabazz Palaces

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Split Seconds (Between Nannies and Swamis) 4:16
  • 2 Me-Time (With the Pulmonary Palimpsest) 2:36
  • 3 Handfuls of Sky 5:08
  • 4 Scoliosis Jones 2:36
  • 5 Least Favorite Rapper 3:23
  • 6 Quebec and Back 4:07
  • 7 Do the Wop 3:02
  • 8 World Agape 2:16
  • 9 Manchuria 3:48
  • 10 Unsafe Sextet / Gilded Hearts of Booklovers 5:11
  • 11 Happy Insider 3:29
  • 12 I've Always Known 2:37
  • 13 Fishy Face 5:09
  • 14 Sorry. Fuckers 3:03

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata