What makes Yasuke by Flying Lotus notable?

Yasuke received critical acclaim for its innovative soundscapes and storytelling, with praise from major outlets like Pitchfork, highlighting its cultural significance through the lens of the historical figure Yasuke, Japan's first African samurai. The album's unique fusion of genres further cemented Flying Lotus's role as a pivotal artist in contemporary experimental music. By the time of Yasuke's release in April 2021, Flying Lotus was already an established figure in experimental music, known for his previous works like Cosmogramma (2010) and You're Dead! (2014). This album marked his return after a five-year hiatus, coinciding with his explorations into new artistic territories, including animation and film production.

Yasuke works well if you're into short, impactful listening bursts, fragmented pacing exploration and dynamic emotional shifts.

How many songs are on Yasuke?

Yasuke has 26 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Yasuke

Flying Lotus · 2021

43 min · 26 tracks · electronic music

A kaleidoscopic blend of electronica and hip-hop, evoking an ethereal journey through time and memory.

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Top tracks — play these first

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War at the Door — Opening with a haunting atmosphere and quick tempo, this track sets the tone for the album’s narrative journey while merging traditional and modern sounds.
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African Samurai — This track encapsulates the core theme of the album, intertwining rich instrumentation with a rhythmic pulse that reflects Yasuke's dual heritage and struggle.
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Mind Flight — A standout piece that showcases Flying Lotus's ability to weave complex layers of sound, creating an immersive experience that evokes introspection and exploration.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

72 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

Yasuke presents a rich tapestry of sound that rewards repeated listens while maintaining a cohesive narrative flow.

What we noticed

Several pieces incorporate traditional Japanese instruments alongside electronic elements, enhancing the thematic connection to Yasuke's cultural background.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 9/10

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

short, impactful listening bursts
fragmented pacing exploration
dynamic emotional shifts
vibrant sonic textures
immersive storytelling elements

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Yasuke is celebrated for its innovative soundscapes and cultural storytelling.
Career context: By the time of Yasuke's release in April 2021, Flying Lotus was already an established figure in experimental music, known for his previous works like Cosmogramma (2010) and You're Dead! (2014). This album marked his return after a five-year hiatus, coinciding with his explorations into new artistic territories, including animation and film production.
Stylistic neighbors: Thundercat· Kamasi Washington· Shlohmo