Reachin'
Digable Planets · 1993
56 min · 14 tracks · jazz rap
A fusion of smooth jazz samples and laid-back hip-hop rhythms create a captivating auditory experience that feels both reflective and groove-oriented.
Top tracks — play these first
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Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat) — This track exemplifies the album's signature style, blending jazzy instrumentals with clever wordplay and a smooth flow that made it an instant classic.
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Pacifics — With its vivid storytelling and intricate lyricism, this track showcases the group's ability to weave personal narratives into broader cultural commentary, highlighting their lyrical prowess.
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What Cool Breezes Do — This song captures the essence of the album's laid-back vibe while exploring themes of freedom and escapism through evocative imagery and flowing melodies.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends jazz and hip-hop seamlessly, showcasing strong composition and craft while maintaining a distinct sound.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of smooth jazz samples layered over laid-back hip-hop beats, creating a relaxed groove throughout.
- Vocals are often delivered in a conversational style, with multiple members contributing lines that intertwine rather than following a strict verse-chorus structure.
- Several tracks incorporate instrumental interludes that allow the jazz elements to shine without vocal distraction, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy levels
- long, immersive listening sessions
- thought-provoking lyrical exploration
- gradual builds and payoffs
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on February 9, 1993, 'Reachin'' was Digable Planets' debut album, introducing their unique blend of jazz rap to the burgeoning alternative hip-hop scene. At this point, the group was establishing their identity in a genre dominated by more aggressive styles, setting them apart with their sophisticated sound and intellect.
- Stylistic neighbors
- A Tribe Called Quest· The Roots· Guru
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 It’s Good to Be Here 5:06
- 2 Pacifics 4:31
- 3 Where I’m From 4:35
- 4 What Cool Breezes Do 3:21
- 5 Time & Space (A New Refutation Of) 3:32
- 6 Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat) 4:21
- 7 Last of the Spiddyocks 4:27
- 8 Jimmi Diggin’ Cats 3:41
- 9 La Femme Fétal 4:35
- 10 Escapism (Gettin’ Free) 3:24
- 11 Appointment at the Fat Clinic 2:58
- 12 Nickel Bags 3:18
- 13 Swoon Units 4:00
- 14 Examination of What 4:44
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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