What makes Trip the Light Fantastic by Digable Planets notable?

This album received notable attention for its innovative blend of genres within the jazz rap scene and was recognized for its thoughtful lyrics addressing social issues. While it didn't achieve mainstream commercial success, it was praised in various reviews for its artistic integrity, contributing to the resurgence of interest in underground hip-hop during the mid-2000s. Released in 2005, Trip the Light Fantastic marked Ladybug Mecca's return as a solo artist after a hiatus following Digable Planets' previous work. This album followed her time away from the music scene, where she focused on personal growth and artistic exploration. It represented a significant step in her evolution, blending her unique style with contemporary themes.

How many songs are on Trip the Light Fantastic?

Trip the Light Fantastic has 19 tracks, running approximately 59 minutes.

Trip the Light Fantastic

Digable Planets · 2005

59 min · 19 tracks · jazz rap

A fusion of smooth jazz and introspective hip-hop flows creates an atmosphere rich with poetic exploration and social commentary.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Children Say — This track showcases poignant lyrics reflecting on childhood innocence and societal challenges, encapsulating the album's thematic essence.
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Dogg Starr — With its funky rhythms and clever wordplay, this song exemplifies Ladybug Mecca's signature style while engaging listeners with its playful yet thought-provoking narrative.
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Leaving It All Behind — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics that explore themes of self-discovery and liberation, resonating deeply with listeners navigating their own journeys.

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 jazz and hip-hop effectively but lacks strong cohesion across its extensive tracklist.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of smooth jazz samples layered with laid-back hip-hop beats, creating a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere.
Several tracks incorporate live instrumentation alongside programmed elements, enhancing the organic feel of the production.

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 3/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Dark Matter 0:36
2 Don't Disturb The Peace 3:19
3 Children Say 3:08
4 Ladybug Come Outside 2:37
5 Show The World 3:35
6 Mr. Mayor 2:21
7 Dogg Starr 4:12
8 Leaving It All Behind 3:08
9 Sexual Alchemy 3:26
10 Centre Of Nowhere 3:53
11 Please Don't 2:59
12 Last Train 4:23
13 Sweet & Polite 3:02
14 Suicidethol (Killufast Capsules) 100 MG 1:53
15 You Never Get Over It 3:43
16 Remember When? 4:04
17 Oh Poor You 3:08
18 Step Up Wise 2:25
19 If I Need To Move On (Sometimes) 3:39

What to play next

Listen next

Beyond the Spectrum: the Creamy Spy Chronicles

2005

Go back to

Blowout Comb

1994

Full Digable Planets discography Artists like Digable Planets

jazz rap

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata