More Is Than Isn't cover

More Is Than Isn't

RJD2 · 2013

59 min · 16 tracks · hip-hop

A genre-blending tapestry of intricate beats, soulful melodies, and introspective lyrics that reflects RJD2's evolving artistry.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Temperamental — This track exemplifies RJD2's skill in combining catchy hooks with thoughtful lyricism, creating a sound that is both accessible and deeply engaging.
  • →
    Behold, Numbers! — With its infectious beat and clever wordplay, this track serves as a standout example of RJD2’s ability to marry rhythm with narrative flair.
  • →
    Love and Go — This song highlights a more reflective side of the artist, blending poignant lyrics with lush instrumentation that resonates with listeners.

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

The album blends various styles with strong production, though it may not have a lasting cultural footprint.

What we noticed

  • The album features three distinct 'Suite' tracks that serve as interludes, creating a thematic and sonic bridge between the main songs.
  • Several tracks incorporate live instrumentation alongside samples, blending genres like hip-hop, soul, and electronic music.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

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
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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 flow with resolution
  • introspective moments of reflection
  • wave-like pacing throughout album
  • engaging storytelling through instrumentals

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek straightforward, predictable sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Fan Favorite — Showcases RJD2's evolving sound and is well-received by dedicated fans.
Career context
By the time 'More Is Than Isn't' was released in 2013, RJD2 had established himself as a significant figure in the hip-hop world, following his critically acclaimed album 'The Colossus' from 2010. This album marked a shift towards a more collaborative approach after years of solo production, featuring contributions from various vocalists and musicians.
Stylistic neighbors
DJ Shadow· Blockhead· Aesop Rock

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Suite 1 2:01
  • 2 Temperamental 3:27
  • 3 Behold, Numbers! 4:33
  • 4 Her Majesty’s Socialist Request 3:45
  • 5 A Lot of Night Ahead of You 2:56
  • 6 Bathwater 3:06
  • 7 Milk Tooth 3:56
  • 8 Suite 2 1:48
  • 9 Winter Isn’t Coming 4:13
  • 10 See You Leave 4:59
  • 11 Got There, Sugar? 4:29
  • 12 Love and Go 4:30
  • 13 Descended From Myth 6:14
  • 14 Dirty Hands 3:48
  • 15 It All Came to Me in a Dream 3:17
  • 16 Suite 3 2:26

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata