Unapologetic Art Rap cover

Unapologetic Art Rap

Open Mike Eagle · 2010

45 min · 15 tracks · hip-hop

Eclectic beats and introspective lyrics blend into a playfully subversive exploration of identity in contemporary hip-hop.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    WTF Is Art Rap? — This track serves as both a manifesto and an inquiry into the art form itself, encapsulating the album's exploration of hip-hop identity and purpose.
  • →
    Freak Flag — With its catchy hook and playful lyricism, this track highlights the celebration of individuality and self-acceptance that permeates the album.
  • →
    Garbage Man — This track offers poignant social commentary wrapped in clever wordplay, showcasing Open Mike Eagle's ability to blend humor with serious themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100
Foothills
Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album blends eclectic beats with introspective lyrics, establishing Open Mike Eagle's unique voice in alternative hip-hop.

What we noticed

  • Lyrically, the tracks explore themes of identity and self-reflection, with Open Mike Eagle employing a conversational style that shifts between humor and seriousness.
  • Several tracks utilize spoken word interludes, creating a narrative flow that connects the songs thematically.
  • The pacing varies significantly; some tracks are brisk and energetic while others slow down to allow for deeper lyrical exploration.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

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 6/10

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

  • witty introspection with varied pacing
  • dynamic journey of short tracks
  • playful exploration of artistic themes
  • engaging commentary on culture

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, linear narratives
  • seek longer, cohesive listening experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Unapologetic Art Rap is Open Mike Eagle's debut studio album, released after his successful mixtape, 'The Last Adventure.' At this point in his career, he was establishing himself within the underground hip-hop scene, showcasing his distinct style that combines humor and socio-political commentary.
Stylistic neighbors
Aesop Rock· Busdriver· Milo

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Pissy Transmissions

    The narrative shifts from personal reflection to broader societal critique through vivid imagery and sharp metaphors.

    This transition allows for a layered understanding of the artist’s frustrations while simultaneously engaging with larger cultural issues.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Art Rap Party 3:05
  • 2 Freak Flag 3:37
  • 3 I Rock 2:23
  • 4 Rap Protection Prayer 3:30
  • 5 Helicopter 2:13
  • 6 Mistakes 2:33
  • 7 WTF Is Art Rap? 1:32
  • 8 Unapologetic 3:32
  • 9 Pissy Transmissions 3:23
  • 10 Original Butterscotch Confection 2:20
  • 11 Partly Cloudy 1:46
  • 12 Easter Surgery 3:03
  • 13 Garbage Man 4:14
  • 14 Mole In Your Ministry 4:01
  • 15 Go Home 4:39

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata