What makes The Third Hand by RJD2 notable?

The Third Hand received positive reviews from critics, demonstrating RJD2's ability to blend genres and expand his sonic palette. It also debuted at number 32 on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying his presence in the music industry as an innovative artist capable of navigating different musical landscapes. Released in January 2007, The Third Hand marked RJD2's departure from his earlier work with Definitive Jux and represented a significant artistic shift as his first album entirely featuring vocals. Following the success of his acclaimed instrumental albums, this project showcased RJD2's evolution into a more song-oriented format, highlighting his versatility as both a producer and vocalist.

Who is The Third Hand for?

The Third Hand works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, gradual builds and payoffs and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on The Third Hand?

The Third Hand has 15 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

The Third Hand

RJD2 · 2007

47 min · 15 tracks · hip-hop

A genre-blurring exploration where hip-hop, soul, and electronic influences weave together in intricate layers.

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Top tracks — play these first

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You Never Had It So Good — This track exemplifies the album's blend of soulful melodies and reflective lyrics, encapsulating RJD2's transition into vocal-driven music while maintaining his signature production style.
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Have Mercy — An upbeat track that showcases RJD2's knack for catchy hooks and clever wordplay, it highlights the playful side of the album amidst its deeper themes.
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The Bad Penny — With its introspective lyrics and intricate production, this track serves as a standout moment that reflects RJD2's lyrical depth and musical complexity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album blends genres with intricate layers but lacks consistent cohesion in its sequencing.

What we noticed

Vocals are layered with samples and beats, creating a dense soundscape that requires focused listening to appreciate the intricacies.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

steady, consistent energy levels
gradual builds and payoffs
atmospheric background focus
long, immersive listening sessions

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Represents a significant artistic shift with a focus on vocals, blending various genres.
Career context: Released in January 2007, The Third Hand marked RJD2's departure from his earlier work with Definitive Jux and represented a significant artistic shift as his first album entirely featuring vocals. Following the success of his acclaimed instrumental albums, this project showcased RJD2's evolution into a more song-oriented format, highlighting his versatility as both a producer and vocalist.
Stylistic neighbors: DJ Shadow· Blockhead· Aesop Rock