Undun cover

Undun

The Roots · 2011

38 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock · funk · hip-hop

A haunting narrative unfolds through intricate rhythms and soulful melodies, blending hip-hop with jazz-infused instrumentation.

Why this album works

Best for
short, immersive listening sessions thoughtful narrative exploration reflective late-night vibes
Context
Released in early 2011, 'Undun' marks The Roots' first concept album following their acclaimed 2010 release 'How I Got Over'. At this point in their career, they were deepening their artistic exploration, moving beyond traditional hip-hop frameworks to create a more narrative-driven experience.
If you like
alternative rock, funk, hip-hop
If this clicks, go next to
…And Then You Shoot Your Cousin — Continues the narrative style with a fresh perspective and maintains the jazz-infused sound.

Undun is an album by The Roots, released in 2011. A haunting narrative unfolds through intricate rhythms and soulful melodies, blending hip-hop with jazz-infused instrumentation. Notably, 'Undun' received critical acclaim, landing on numerous year-end lists and showcasing The Roots' ability to innovate within the genre. It also reinforced their influence in alternative hip-hop, with several tracks gaining traction on playlists and radio, further solidifying their cultural impact. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Undun sound like?

A haunting narrative unfolds through intricate rhythms and soulful melodies, blending hip-hop with jazz-infused instrumentation. Rooted in alternative rock and funk.

What makes Undun by The Roots notable?

Notably, 'Undun' received critical acclaim, landing on numerous year-end lists and showcasing The Roots' ability to innovate within the genre. It also reinforced their influence in alternative hip-hop, with several tracks gaining traction on playlists and radio, further solidifying their cultural impact. Released in early 2011, 'Undun' marks The Roots' first concept album following their acclaimed 2010 release 'How I Got Over'. At this point in their career, they were deepening their artistic exploration, moving beyond traditional hip-hop frameworks to create a more narrative-driven experience.

Who is Undun for?

Undun works well if you're into short, immersive listening sessions, thoughtful narrative exploration and reflective late-night vibes.

How many songs are on Undun?

Undun has 14 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Tracklist

14 tracks·38:51

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

  • 1 Dun 1:17
  • 2 Sleep 2:16
  • 3 Make My 4:28
  • 4 One Time Standout 3:56
  • 5 Kool On 3:49
  • 6 The OtherSide 4:03
  • 7 Stomp 2:23
  • 8 Lighthouse Standout 3:44
  • 9 I Remember Standout 3:15
  • 10 Tip the Scale 4:18
  • 11 Redford Suite: Redford (For Yia‐Yia & Pappou) 1:52
  • 12 Redford Suite: Possibility (2nd Movement) 0:55
  • 13 Redford Suite: Will to Power (3rd Movement) 1:04
  • 14 Redford Suite: Finality (4th Movement) 1:31

Release Date

January 1, 2011

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

38 min 51 sec