Dr. Octagonecologyst is a masterpiece, and undoubtedly Kool Keith’s greatest album to date. The concept behind the album is unique and captivating, introducing the character of Dr. Octagon – a homicidal, hypersexual, extraterrestrial, time-traveling gynecologist and surgeon. Dr. Octagon’s story is intricately woven throughout the album’s songs, skits, and samples, making for an immersive and engaging listening experience.

One of the most impressive aspects of Dr. Octagonecologyst is how well the concept works. Kool Keith fully embodies the character of Dr. Octagon, delivering lyrics that are bizarre, outrageous, and often hilarious. But beneath the surface, there is also a sense of darkness and danger that permeates the album, adding a layer of complexity to the character and the story being told.

Dan The Automator’s production on the album is nothing short of phenomenal. The instrumentals are innovative and spaced out, perfectly complementing Kool Keith’s unique flow and adding to the overall otherworldly feel of the album. The use of samples and skits further enhances the concept, creating a cohesive and seamless listening experience.

Despite its outlandish concept and experimental production, Dr. Octagonecologyst manages to remain accessible and engaging throughout. Kool Keith’s delivery is confident and charismatic, and the album’s hooks and melodies are undeniably catchy. It’s a testament to Kool Keith’s skill as a rapper that he is able to pull off a concept as wild and unconventional as Dr. Octagon and make it sound not only believable but also incredibly entertaining.

As mentioned by Mickey Hess in his book, “Is Hip Hop Dead? The Past, Present, and Future of America’s Most-Wanted Music”, Dr. Octagonecologyst also serves as a reminder of Kool Keith’s place in Hip Hop history. The album’s opening track, “3000,” sets the stage for the concept and introduces the character of Dr. Octagon, while the closing track, “1977,” features an audio recording from an early rap performance by Kool Keith.

“The album’s beginning and ending tie together the stories of the fictional character Dr. Octagon and the rap career of Kool Keith Thornton himself: We begin with ‘3000’ and end with ‘1977,’ which purports to be an audio recording from an early rap performance by Kool Keith … announcing a 1977 rap show featuring … pioneers Grandmaster Flash, Kool Herc, the L Brothers, and the original scratch creator Grand Wizzard Theodore [sic]. The message is clear: Kool Keith is a part of Hip Hop history, and even as rap moves on to the future, Dr. Octagon does not replace Kool Keith.”

Dr. Octagonecologyst was way ahead of its time when it was released in 1996, and it still sounds fresh and innovative today. The album’s influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have come after it, but it has rarely been surpassed. Dr. Octagonecologyst pushed the limits of what was possible in Hip Hop, both sonically and conceptually, and remains a masterwork to this day.

In conclusion: Dr. Octagonecologyst is a must-listen for any fan of Hip Hop or anyone interested in innovative and boundary-pushing music. Kool Keith’s performance as Dr. Octagon is unforgettable, and Dan The Automator’s production is truly groundbreaking. It’s an album that rewards repeated listens, as there are always new layers to uncover and appreciate. Dr. Octagonecologyst is a true classic of underground Hip Hop and one that will continue to be celebrated for years to come.