What makes The Solution by 9th Wonder notable?

This album is significant for its critical reception, particularly within underground hip-hop circles, where it was praised for its authentic production style. It also showcased 9th Wonder's ability to bridge classic and modern elements of hip-hop, influencing a new generation of artists seeking that traditional sound. By 2012, 9th Wonder had established himself as a prominent producer in the hip-hop genre, known for his work with artists like Little Brother. 'The Solution' marks a collaboration with Buckshot, following their successful project 'Chemistry' in 2005, demonstrating his continued evolution in sound and partnership dynamics.

Who is The Solution for?

The Solution works well if you're into smooth transitions between tracks, short bursts of lyrical insight and reflective moments throughout listening.

How many songs are on The Solution?

The Solution has 12 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

The Solution

9th Wonder · 2012

41 min · 12 tracks · hip-hop

A seamless blend of classic boom-bap and contemporary hip-hop influences, showcasing intricate sampling and smooth production.

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Top tracks — play these first

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What I Gotta Say — This track exemplifies the album's lyrical depth and features a catchy hook that encapsulates the essence of hip-hop storytelling.
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Crazy — With its infectious beat and engaging flow, this track stands out as an anthem of resilience amidst life's unpredictability.
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The Solution — The title track serves as a reflective culmination of the album's themes, showcasing both lyrical introspection and masterful production.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends classic and contemporary styles effectively, showcasing strong production and thoughtful composition.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent boom-bap rhythm, while the fourth introduces a more melodic hook that shifts the album's tone.
Several tracks utilize layered samples from classic soul and jazz records, creating a rich texture that complements the lyrical content.
The album closes with a title track that features a gradual build-up, culminating in a reflective outro that contrasts with the earlier energy.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

smooth transitions between tracks
short bursts of lyrical insight
reflective moments throughout listening
engaging flow for casual listening
subtle complexity in production

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy, sprawling albums
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: By 2012, 9th Wonder had established himself as a prominent producer in the hip-hop genre, known for his work with artists like Little Brother. 'The Solution' marks a collaboration with Buckshot, following their successful project 'Chemistry' in 2005, demonstrating his continued evolution in sound and partnership dynamics.
Stylistic neighbors: J Dilla· Pete Rock· Madlib

Tracklist

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

1 The Big Bang 3:51
2 What I Gotta Say 3:49
3 Stop Rapping 3:40
4 Crazy 3:02
5 The Feeling 3:48
6 Sam 2:53
7 Pat 'em Down 3:51
8 Keep It Going 2:44
9 The Change Up 2:41
10 Shorty Left 3:13
11 You 3:37
12 The Solution 4:32

What to play next

Listen next

Tutankhamen: Valley of the Kings

2012

Go back to

The Wonder Years

2011

Full 9th Wonder discography Artists like 9th Wonder

hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata