What makes Library of Soul by Leessang notable?

This album is significant for its blend of hip-hop with elements of jazz and soul, contributing to a growing acceptance of diverse musical styles within the Korean music industry. It received critical acclaim, helping to solidify Leessang's reputation and influence on the Korean hip-hop movement. Released in 2005, Library of Soul was Leessang's third studio album, following their previous release, Asura Balbalta. At this point in their career, they were establishing themselves as prominent figures in the South Korean hip-hop scene, blending genres and pushing lyrical boundaries.

How many songs are on Library of Soul?

Library of Soul has 13 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Library of Soul

Leessang · 2005

48 min · 13 tracks · hip-hop

A vivid tapestry of lyrical storytelling intertwined with jazzy beats and soulful melodies that define Leessang's unique sound.

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Top tracks — play these first

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내가 웃는게 아니야 — This track showcases Leessang's signature blend of introspective lyrics and catchy hooks, making it a standout representation of their lyrical prowess.
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도시싸이클 — The song highlights urban themes with a rhythmic flow that mirrors the hustle of city life, encapsulating the essence of contemporary South Korean culture.
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청춘 30 — A reflective piece that explores the trials and tribulations of youth, resonating deeply with listeners while showcasing Leessang's storytelling skills.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Leessang's blend of hip-hop with jazz and soul creates a distinctive sound that stands out in their genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a spoken intro that sets a reflective tone before transitioning into tracks with layered vocal harmonies and jazzy instrumentals.
Several tracks feature intricate wordplay and storytelling, with verses often alternating between the two main vocalists, enhancing the narrative flow.
The production includes live instrumentation alongside samples, creating a rich sonic landscape that blends hip-hop beats with soulful melodies.
The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, providing a contemplative conclusion to the album's themes.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.