The best Experimental Hip-Hop albums
of the 2010s.
Where to start with 2010–2019 experimental hip-hop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 2010s — experimental hip-hop
Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.
Pete Rock
Return of the SP1200
A vibrant tapestry of soulful samples, intricate beats, and jazz-inflected rhythms, embodying the essence of hip-hop's golden age.
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Tricky
Mixed Race
A gritty blend of trip hop and experimental sounds, reflecting on identity and culture through a fragmented lens.
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Tricky
False Idols
A moody blend of trip hop and electronic textures infused with introspective lyrics and haunting melodies.
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Pete Rock
Monumental
A vibrant fusion of soulful samples and sharp lyricism that showcases the enduring legacy of East Coast hip-hop.
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A$AP Rocky
Live. Love. ASAP
A hypnotic blend of atmospheric beats and introspective lyrics that draws from Southern hip-hop influences while retaining a distinctly New York edge.
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A$AP Rocky
Long. Live. ASAP
A$AP Rocky blends ethereal beats and sharp lyricism, crafting a sonic landscape that oscillates between luxury and introspection.
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Death Grips
Gmail and the Restraining Orders
Chaotic soundscapes blend abrasive textures with frenetic beats and incisive lyrics, pushing the boundaries of genre and expectation.
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Death Grips
Government Plates
Chaotic beats clash with abrasive vocals, creating an unsettling yet captivating soundscape that defies genre boundaries.
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JPEGMafia
All My Heroes Are Cornballs
An experimental blend of abrasive textures and introspective lyrics, fusing punk energy with avant-garde hip-hop aesthetics.
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JPEGMafia
Black Ben Carson
Experimental beats clash with provocative lyrics, creating a chaotic soundscape that challenges conventional hip-hop norms.
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Earl Sweatshirt
I Don't Like Shit, I Don't Go Outside: An Album By Earl Sweatshirt
A raw exploration of introspection and isolation wrapped in sparse, haunting instrumentals and Earl's distinctive vocal delivery.
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Kitty
Miami Garden Club
'Miami Garden Club' showcases a seamless integration of airy beats and diverse production techniques, making it an ideal entry point into Kitty's world. It balances accessibility with depth, inviting listeners to explore the complexities of her artistry.
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Busdriver
Thumbs
A kaleidoscopic blend of rapid-fire lyrics and experimental soundscapes that challenge conventional hip-hop norms.
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Busdriver
Perfect Hair
A whirlwind of abstract lyricism and intricate beats that challenge conventional hip-hop structures while embracing improvisational flair.
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M.I.A.
Matangi
Eclectic rhythms and bold samples blend with provocative lyrics, creating a tapestry of cultural commentary and personal expression.
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Earl Sweatshirt
Doris
Earl Sweatshirt's verses intertwine dense, introspective lyrics with experimental soundscapes that challenge conventional hip-hop boundaries.
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M.I.A.
Maya
A frenetic collage of global sounds and provocative lyrics punctuated by M.I.A.'s signature blend of hip-hop and electronic beats.
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Danny Brown
Hawaiian Snow
Eclectic beats blend with sharp lyricism, creating a vibrant and experimental soundscape that captures the essence of urban life.
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Danny Brown
XXX
A chaotic blend of raw lyricism and experimental production that challenges the conventions of hip-hop.
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Moor Mother
Analog Fluids of Sonic Black Holes
A swirling amalgamation of spoken word, experimental beats, and haunting soundscapes that challenge conventional genre boundaries.
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Moor Mother
Fetish Bones
A raw collision of spoken word, experimental beats, and haunting soundscapes that challenges and engages listeners on multiple levels.
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Aceyalone
Leanin' on Slick
A smooth blend of jazzy instrumentals and reflective lyricism creates an immersive listening experience that challenges hip-hop conventions.
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Kilo Kish
Reflections in Real Time
Kilo Kish's sound blends experimental hip-hop with art pop, weaving personal narratives through eclectic beats and intimate vocals.
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Kilo Kish
K+
A surreal blend of experimental beats and intimate storytelling, weaving art pop and hip-hop into a captivating sonic tapestry.
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