Strangeulation Vol. II cover

Strangeulation Vol. II

Tech N9ne · 2015

79 min · 23 tracks · gangsta rap

A frenetic blend of intricate wordplay and layered beats that showcases Tech N9ne's lyrical dexterity and diverse influences.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Praise K.O.D. Start here — The opening track sets an aggressive tone with its high-energy beat and introspective lyrics, encapsulating the album's thematic exploration of personal struggle and resilience.
  • →
    Strangeulation, Vol. II: Cypher I — This cypher showcases Tech N9ne's signature chopper style alongside guest artists, exemplifying the collaborative spirit that defines much of his work.
  • →
    Tell Me If I’m Trippin — Featuring a melodic hook contrasted with rapid verses, this track highlights Tech's versatility and ability to blend different musical elements seamlessly.
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    Fired — A standout for its intense energy and impactful lyrics, this track pushes boundaries with its hard-hitting production and showcases Tech's relentless flow.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong lyrical complexity and varied production but lacks a cohesive flow due to its length and skits.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks employ rapid tempo changes, with verses that shift from aggressive delivery to more melodic hooks.
  • The use of skits breaks up the flow of the album, providing narrative pauses between high-energy tracks.
  • Lyrical themes range from personal introspection to party anthems, creating a diverse emotional landscape.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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 journey with interludes
  • lyrical dexterity in every track
  • wave-like pacing for engagement
  • theatrical beats for immersion
  • party anthems with varied flows

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek standalone single experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — Solid entry that showcases Tech N9ne's style but isn't a standout in his catalog.
Themes
Midwest hip-hop resilience· party culture celebration· personal growth narrative
Career context
Released on November 20, 2015, 'Strangeulation Vol. II' is the follow-up to Tech N9ne's 2014 project 'Special Effects.' At this point in his career, Tech was solidifying his status as a powerhouse independent artist, building on the momentum from previous releases while continuing to innovate within the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Krizz Kaliko· E-40· Twista

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Praise K.O.D.

    The narrative shifts from external struggles to deeply personal reflections on fame and self-doubt.

Tracklist

  • 1 Praise K.O.D. Start here 4:36
  • 2 Strangeulation, Vol. II: Cypher I 2:52
  • 3 PBSA 4:25
  • 4 Push Start 3:05
  • 5 Slow to Me 4:40
  • 6 Strangeulation, Vol. II: Cypher II 4:03
  • 7 MMM 3:54
  • 8 Intruders (skit) 1:04
  • 9 Tell Me If I’m Trippin 4:34
  • 10 We Just Wanna Party 4:01
  • 11 Muah 3:29
  • 12 Strangeulation, Vol. II: Cypher III 2:38
  • 13 Fired 4:07
  • 14 Real With Yourself 4:12
  • 15 Chilly Rub 4:18
  • 16 Strangeulation, Vol. II: Cypher IV 3:15
  • 17 Wake and Bake 3:57
  • 18 Message to MURS (skit) 0:46
  • 19 Blunt and a Ho 3:12
  • 20 Strangeulation, Vol. II: Cypher V 2:54
  • 21 Actin Like You Know 4:09
  • 22 Torrid 4:32
  • 23 Strange (outro) 1:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata