Organized Konfusion – Stress: The Extinction Agenda (1994)

Following the success of their first album, Organized Konfusion, the duo of Pharoahe Monch and Prince Po came back with Stress: The Extinction Agenda—an album that pushed beyond their debut in both complexity and scope. While they retained the intricate wordplay and sharp storytelling that had marked their first project, this album brought a darker, heavier atmosphere. The issues it explores—struggles of inner-city life, the weight of oppression, the constant threat of violence—are conveyed through some of the most detailed rhymes in Hip Hop. The themes feel as immediate today as they did then, with the album’s bold sound still carrying its message clearly and powerfully.

Stress: The Extinction Agenda opens with tracks that make a quick impact. Right from the title track, “Stress,” the tone is set with a low, throbbing beat that’s moody and tense. The lyrics unravel the everyday pressures that stack up for people trying to get by in a world loaded with challenges. Pharoahe Monch and Prince Po trade verses, each line hitting with a kind of precision that’s sharp and unfiltered. Their flows feel completely in sync, one verse picking up the energy of the last, while the beat underscores the grit of their lyrics with an ominous hum.

Another defining track, “The Extinction Agenda,” dives into themes of survival and oppression. With a beat that feels almost like an approaching storm—dark, brooding, and thick—the lyrics hit hard, expressing a struggle against systems that seem rigged against you from the start. The way Pharoahe Monch and Prince Po tackle these subjects has a relentlessness that gives the track an almost physical weight, with each bar stacking up to build a sense of resistance and determination.

“Black Sunday” explores the effects of institutional racism and its devastating impact on the Black community. A haunting instrumental, with a steady, solemn rhythm, underscores the lyrics, which are direct and unsparing. Through their verses, Pharoahe Monch and Prince Po paint vivid images that confront listeners with the pain and injustice endured. The beat itself feels heavy, almost sorrowful, aligning with the serious tone of the track’s message. It’s a song that doesn’t just ask for attention but demands it, forcing a confrontation with the pain inflicted by systemic racism.

The standout track, “Stray Bullet,” delivers a haunting narrative on gun violence. The lyrics follow the perspective of a bullet, tracing its path from the weapon that fires it to the life it cuts short. The storytelling is vivid and gripping as if you’re watching events unfold in slow motion. Through this grim journey, the song illustrates the devastation left in the wake of a single violent act. It’s an unsettling, reflective piece that highlights the impact of guns on communities, and the beat provides a steady, stark background that amplifies the song’s urgency. This track in particular pushes listeners to think critically about the widespread effects of gun violence and questions the role of weapons in society.

Beyond the lyrics, the production on Stress: The Extinction Agenda adds a whole layer of complexity. Much of the production is handled by Organized Konfusion themselves, giving the album a cohesive, distinct tone. The beats are dense and atmospheric, often blending jazz-inspired loops with darker undertones that feel both raw and sophisticated. Horns, piano riffs, and hard-hitting drums all create a gritty backdrop for Pharoahe Monch and Prince Po’s verses, each beat layered and tightly woven into the fabric of the song.

Unlike many albums of its time, Stress: The Extinction Agenda has a sound and feel that doesn’t feel anchored to a specific era. Its creativity and depth reward repeated listening, with new details in both the beats and lyrics revealing themselves each time. It’s an album that stays firmly in the listener’s mind, its themes and sounds lingering long after it ends.

Cannibal Ox – The Cold Vein (2001)

Cannibal Ox’s The Cold Vein breathes like a mechanical dragon in winter. Released in 2001, El-P’s production coats every track in frost and steel, while MCs Vast Aire and Vordul Mega paint pictures of a New York City transformed into a cyberpunk nightmare.

“Iron Galaxy” opens the album like a door into an abandoned factory. The beat clanks and whirs with distorted samples and bass frequencies that rattle your ribcage. Vast and Vordul’s verses spiral through themes of war and decay, their words echoing off concrete and corroded metal. This isn’t music for sunny days – it’s the soundtrack to 3 AM walks through industrial zones, where every shadow might hide a truth you’re not ready to face.

“Pigeon” strips the machinery away, leaving bare-bones production that amplifies Vordul Mega’s raw confessions about poverty and survival. The track feels like reading someone’s diary by streetlight, each line carved from personal pain and triumph. El-P’s beat haunts the background like a ghost, never intruding but always present.

The Cold Vein creates its own universe. El-P builds environments out of industrial noise, static interference, and melodies that sound like they were salvaged from broken machines. Vast Aire and Vordul Mega inhabit these spaces like prophets of urban decay, their lyrics documenting a society eating itself alive. Every verse reads like a news report from tomorrow’s apocalypse.

This isn’t background music. The Cold Vein demands your full attention, rewarding close listening with new details hidden in both beats and rhymes. It’s an album that grows colder with each spin, like a city slowly freezing over. For listeners willing to brave its harsh climate, The Cold Vein offers a vision of Hip Hop as science fiction – a warning from a future we might still prevent.

Dälek – From Filthy Tongue Of Gods And Griots (2002)

Dälek’s From Filthy Tongue Of Gods And Griots is a groundbreaking album in the experimental Hip Hop genre. The New Jersey crew, comprised of MC Dälek, Oktopus, and the late DJ Still, offers a challenging and unconventional sound that will appeal to those looking for something outside the mainstream.

The album’s production features a blend of boom-bap style beats, noisy soundscapes, and unorthodox instrumentation that creates a unique atmosphere that is both menacing and entrancing. From the opening track, “Spiritual Healing”, Dälek sets the tone for what is to come with a disorienting mix of distorted beats and eerie vocal samples.

MC Dälek’s lyrics are dense and thought-provoking, touching on themes of social justice, politics, and the human condition. He delivers his verses with a commanding presence, his deep voice cutting through the noisy production to drive home his message. His words are at times abstract, but the emotion and passion behind them are palpable.

From Filthy Tongue Of Gods And Griots is an album that demands careful attention and deep exploration. The album’s unconventional production and complex lyrics may be challenging for some, but those who are willing to dig in will find a rich and rewarding experience. Dälek was ahead of their time with this album, creating a classic in the industrial Hip Hop subgenre that still sounds fresh and innovative today.

El-P - Fantastic Damage (2002)

In 2002, El-P released Fantastic Damage, an album that redefined the possibilities of underground Hip Hop. The album’s production is dense, abrasive, and incredibly layered, built around a mixture of live instrumentation and samples from a wide range of sources. El-P creates a sound that’s both futuristic and retro at the same time, with a sonic landscape that’s equal parts menacing and mesmerizing.

But it’s not just the production that sets Fantastic Damage apart – it’s also El-P’s lyrical prowess. His rhymes are complex, dense, and almost impenetrable at times, with references to everything from sci-fi novels to political theory. El-P’s flow is also unique, with his rapid-fire delivery and unconventional cadences adding to the album’s already-dizzying complexity.

The album’s themes are also worth discussing. Like Cannibal Ox’s The Cold Vein, Fantastic Damage is a bleak and dystopian work, with El-P painting a picture of a world on the brink of collapse. His lyrics touch on everything from police brutality and government corruption to personal struggles with addiction and depression. It’s heavy stuff, but it’s also incredibly compelling, with El-P’s vision of a near-future world gone wrong feeling scarily prescient even today.

One of the most impressive things about Fantastic Damage is how well it’s held up over time. The album was groundbreaking when it was released, and its influence can be heard in countless underground and experimental Hip Hop artists. The album is still considered a classic of the genre by many, and its themes and sounds remain as relevant today as they were in 2002.

For any Hip Hop fan with an interest in the more experimental and avant-garde side of the genre, Fantastic Damage is an essential listen. El-P’s production and lyricism are both top-notch, and the album’s themes are as relevant today as they were when it was released. Fantastic Damage is a must if you’re looking for something dark, challenging, and unlike anything else out there.

Busdriver - Fear of a Black Tangent (2005)

Busdriver, born Regan Farquhar, is a rapper and producer known for his avant-garde approach to Hip Hop. Born in Los Angeles, California in 1978, Busdriver first gained attention in the early 2000s with a string of underground releases that showcased his complex lyrics and experimental production.

His Fear of a Black Tangent is an intellectual and socially conscious Hip Hop album that challenges the listener with its complex lyrics and experimental production. Released in 2005, the album combines Busdriver’s intricate wordplay and eclectic delivery with production that fuses elements of jazz, electronic, and classical music.

One standout track on the album is “Unemployed Black Astronaut,” a song that features Busdriver delivering a furious flow over an infectious beat. The track’s lyrics deal with themes of race, identity, and the struggles of being a Black artist in America. Another standout track is “Wormholes,” a song that features Busdriver’s stream-of-consciousness wordplay over a hypnotic beat that blends electronic and classical music.

The album’s themes of social injustice, political unrest, and racial identity are tackled head-on in tracks like “Avantcore,” a song that criticizes the music industry’s commodification of Black culture, and “Cool Band Buzz,” a track that explores the ways in which language is used to perpetuate stereotypes and maintain power dynamics.

Fear of a Black Tangent is an album that may not be as dark as some of the other albums on this list, but it certainly is a challenging one that demands careful listening and close examination, ultimately rewarding for those who are willing to engage with the material. Busdriver is an artist who is unafraid to take risks and push the boundaries of the genre, and Fear of a Black Tangent is a shining example of his creativity and vision.

Dälek - Absence (2005)

Dälek’s Absence, released in 2005, is widely considered one of their best works. From the opening track, “Distorted Prose,” it’s clear that this is not your average Hip Hop album. The production is dense and layered, with samples and noises that range from ominous drones to screeching feedback. MC Dälek’s lyrics are similarly abstract and thought-provoking, touching on themes of isolation, anxiety, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.

One of the strengths of Absence is its ability to create a sense of unease and tension throughout its runtime. The beats are often oppressive, and the lyrics are heavy with a sense of foreboding. Yet, there is a sense of catharsis to be found in the music. Dälek’s lyrics are often confrontational and challenging, but they are also deeply personal and introspective. The result is an album that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally affecting.

Absence is a landmark album in the experimental Hip Hop subgenre. The album is not an easy listen, but it is a deeply rewarding one. For those who are looking for something outside the mainstream, Absence is an essential listen.

Death Grips - The Money Store (2012)

Death Grips’s The Money Store is a ground-breaking album that showcases the group’s experimental approach to Hip Hop. Released in 2012, it features all original material and delivers an intense, aggressive, and confrontational sound that fuses elements of Hip Hop, punk, and industrial music.

The production on The Money Store is noteworthy and is handled by the group’s drummer Zach Hill, along with producer Andy Morin. The beats are noisy, chaotic, and abrasive, incorporating electronic music and heavy metal elements to push the boundaries of Hip Hop. The sound is futuristic, yet retro, and is unlike anything else in Hip Hop.

MC Ride, the group’s lead vocalist, is another highlight of The Money Store. He brings a raw, aggressive flow and confrontational lyrics to the album, creating a sense of tension and danger that permeates every track. He covers difficult subjects, such as political corruption, mental illness, and drug addiction, making the album both challenging and rewarding.

The Money Store is a confrontational listening experience. Despite its abrasive nature, it has received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and fearless approach to Hip Hop. It is an essential album for anyone interested in cutting-edge Hip Hop and experimental music. It defies categorization and blends elements of punk, industrial, and electronic music into a Hip Hop sound that is uniquely Death Grips. Whether you love it or hate it, The Money Store‘s impact on alternative Hip Hop cannot be denied.

billy woods - History Will Absolve Me (2012)

The elusive billy woods is an underground rapper who has been making music since the early 2000s. Born in Washington D.C., he grew up in Africa and the West Indies and later moved to New York City, where he currently resides. woods is known for his dense, intricate rhymes and socially conscious lyrics, often tackling topics such as race, politics, and society’s ills.

In 2012, woods released History Will Absolve Me, a critically acclaimed album that solidified his place as one of the most thought-provoking and talented rappers in the underground scene. The album is a dark, brooding masterpiece that features production from a range of talented beatmakers, including Willie Green, Blockhead, and Marmaduke. The result is a unique sound that is both experimental and accessible, with a focus on dense, complex lyrics that require multiple listens to fully appreciate.

One of the standout tracks on the album is “Crocodile Tears,” which features a haunting, piano-driven beat. The song is a scathing indictment of the music industry and the hypocrisy of mainstream rappers who claim to care about social issues, but ultimately prioritize their own fame and fortune over real change. woods’ lyrics are biting and incisive, calling out the bogus solidarity of those who use their platform to spout empty slogans but refuse to take real action.

Another standout track is “Duck Hunt,” which features a jazzy, off-kilter beat that perfectly complements woods’ dense, stream-of-consciousness rhymes. The song is a meditation on the power of language and the ways in which it can be used to manipulate and control people. woods’ lyrics are dense and packed with references to literature, history, and pop culture, showcasing his intellect and mastery of the written word. Throughout the album, woods’ lyrical themes are often bleak and despairing, but he never succumbs to nihilism or hopelessness.

Overall, History Will Absolve Me is a powerful, thought-provoking album that showcases billy woods’ exceptional talent as a rapper and lyricist. The production is experimental and engaging, and the lyrics are dense and packed with meaning. While it may not be the most accessible album for casual listeners, those who take the time to delve into its depths will be rewarded with a rich and rewarding experience. In a time when so much of mainstream Hip Hop is dominated by empty, commercialized soundscapes, History Will Absolve Me still is a breath of fresh air, reminding us of the true power of the art form to inspire, challenge, and uplift.

El-P - Cancer 4 Cure (2012)

El-P’s Cancer 4 Cure is a dark and intense Hip Hop album that showcases the producer and MC’s unique blend of futuristic production and socially conscious lyrics. Released in 2012, the album is a testament to El-P’s ability to create dense, layered tracks that are both sonically engaging and intellectually stimulating.

One standout track on the album is “The Full Retard,” a song that features El-P’s aggressive flow over a beat that is equal parts chaotic and hypnotic. The track’s lyrics are a scathing critique of the state of modern society, with El-P skewering everything from consumer culture to political corruption. Another standout track is “Tougher Colder Killer,” a song that features guest appearances from Killer Mike and Despot. The track’s ominous production and gritty lyrics are a perfect example of El-P’s ability to create a sonic landscape that is simultaneously menacing and thought-provoking.

Throughout the album, El-P tackles themes of isolation, paranoia, and disillusionment, exploring the darker aspects of the human experience with unflinching honesty. Tracks like “Drones Over Brooklyn” and “The Jig Is Up” are powerful indictments of a society that has lost its way, with El-P’s lyrics serving as a wake-up call to those who are willing to listen.

Cancer 4 Cure’s unconventional production and complex lyrics are not for the faint of heart, but for those who are willing to engage with the album’s content, the album is a rewarding experience. Cancer 4 Cure is an album that stands out for its uncompromising vision and intense sonic palette. El-P’s production is both otherworldly and grounded in reality, creating a unique sonic landscape that is both futuristic and deeply rooted in the present. The album’s themes of social and political unrest are as relevant today as they were when the album was released, making Cancer 4 Cure a powerful statement from an artist who continues to push the boundaries of Hip Hop.

Danny Brown - Old (2013)

Detroit’s Danny Brown is one of the most unique rappers out there. He got a one-of-a-kind voice that’s equal parts raspy and high-pitched, and he’s not afraid to experiment with different sounds and styles. His music often explores themes of drug addiction, poverty, and mental health, and his willingness to take risks and push boundaries has made him a respected and influential figure in the world of Hip Hop.

When it comes to Danny Brown’s discography, Old is an underrated gem that often gets overlooked in favor of his breakthrough sophomore album X X X (2011) or his classic Atrocity Exhibition (2016) album. But make no mistake, Old is an excellent album too, an album that is aging really well.

Released in 2013, Old sees Danny Brown at his most personal and introspective. Old is an album with very different sides, it’s like it is two albums in one. The first half of the 19 tracks show us an introspective and more serious Danny Brown who touches upon all kinds of his craziness and personal turmoil, the second half is not much less crazy in subject matter but is a little more lighthearted, consisting more of club bangers.

One of the standout tracks on the album is “25 Bucks,” a poignant track that explores the struggles of his mother’s financial hardships and his own experiences growing up in Detroit. The collaboration with Purity Ring’s Megan James adds an ethereal quality to the track.

Another highlight is “Torture,” which features production from Oh No and sees Brown rapping about the harsh realities of life in Detroit. “Gunshots outside was sorta like fireworks / We know they ain’t fireworks, its December 21st / Cold winter with a kerosene heater on the couch so cold / Can’t take off your sneakers / And it’s torture / Look in my mind and see the horrors...”, he spits over a pulsating beat. On “Dope Fiend Rental,” he raps in a rapid-fire cadence over a brooding beat, while on “Lonely,” he slows things down and delivers a more emotional performance.

Old is a dark and challenging album that sees Danny Brown at his most vulnerable and introspective. It’s an album that deserves more recognition than it gets and is a must-listen for any fan of experimental Hip Hop.

Earl Sweatshirt - Doris (2013)

Earl Sweatshirt first gained prominence as a member of the Hip Hop collective Odd Future, before embarking on a successful solo career. Doris, his 2013 debut album showcased his lyrical prowess and unique style, which combines gritty storytelling with experimental soundscapes.

Doris is an album that commands attention from the moment it begins. The opening track, “Pre,” sets the tone for the rest of the album with its grimy, experimental production and Earl’s introspective lyrics. From there, the album delves deep into Earl’s psyche, exploring themes of depression, isolation, and addiction. The beats on Doris are dark, complex, and often abrasive. They draw inspiration from a wide range of genres, including jazz, soul, and even punk rock. The result is a sound that is distinctly Earl’s own, and it perfectly complements the raw emotion of his lyrics.

One of the standout tracks on the album is “Chum,” which was also the album’s lead single. The song finds Earl grappling with his past and his troubled relationship with his father. The beat is minimalistic, consisting of little more than a piano riff and a drum loop, but it creates a haunting atmosphere that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. Earl’s flow is slow and deliberate, allowing the weight of his words to sink in. Another highlight is “Sunday,” which features a guest verse from Frank Ocean. The beat is built around a soulful sample and a steady drum pattern, and Earl’s lyrics touch on his struggles with addiction and the difficulties of maintaining relationships. Frank Ocean’s verse is a perfect complement to Earl’s, providing a different perspective on the same themes.

The album’s guest features are well-chosen and add to the album’s overall texture. Vince Staples, Tyler, The Creator, RZA, and Mac Miller all make appearances (among others), and each brings a unique energy to their respective tracks. But it is Earl who remains the star of the show, and his lyrics and delivery are what make Doris such a powerful listening experience.

Doris is an album that rewards multiple listens. On the surface, it may seem like a collection of dark, moody tracks, but there are layers to be uncovered. Earl’s lyrics are often cryptic and require close attention to fully understand. But the payoff is worth it. The album is a deeply personal exploration of Earl’s inner demons, and it provides a window into the mind of one of the most talented and enigmatic figures in modern Hip Hop.

The album can be overwhelming at times – the production is so dense and layered that it can be difficult to fully digest everything that is happening. But this is a minor quibble in the grand scheme of things: Earl Sweatshirt’s Doris is a low-key masterpiece. It’s experimental production and introspective lyrics set it apart from the pack, and Earl’s raw honesty and vulnerability make it a deeply affecting listening experience. The album is not for everyone, but for those who are willing to dive in and explore its depths, it is a gem.

Killah Priest – The Psychic World Of Walter Reed (2013)

Killah Priest is a Wu-Tang Clan affiliate from Brooklyn, New York. He first gained prominence in the mid-1990s with his appearances on Wu-Tang Clan’s solo albums, and his solo debut album Heavy Mental (1998). He has since released numerous solo albums, including The Psychic World of Walter Reed, which is considered one of his best works.

The Psychic World of Walter Reed is a dense and complex album that offers a unique and rewarding listening experience for those willing to delve into its 41 tracks. The album showcases Killah Priest’s signature style of cryptic observations and cosmic imagery mixed with street wisdom, delivered through his resonating baritone. The beats on this album are top-notch, with contributions from elite beat crafters like RZA and 4th Disciple, as well as lesser-known producers who deliver equally impressive production.

The Psychic World Of Walter Reed is an impressive achievement that showcases Killah Priest’s lyrical prowess and unique perspective. It’s not an album for everyone, as its length and heavy subject matter may be overwhelming for some listeners. But for those who are willing to take the time to dive into this behemoth project, it’s a rewarding and enlightening experience. Killah Priest proves that he’s one of the most talented and innovative artists in the extended Wu-Tang family, and The Psychic World Of Walter Reed is a testament to his skill and vision.

clipping. - CLPPNG (2014)

Clipping is a daring experimental Hip Hop trio hailing from Los Angeles, California, comprising rapper Daveed Diggs and producers William Hutson and Jonathan Snipes. Their debut studio album, CLPPNG, which followed their critically acclaimed midcity mixtape, is a sonic journey into the heart of darkness that is as thought-provoking as it is unsettling.

One of the most striking aspects of CLPPNG is the dense and disturbing lyrics delivered by Daveed Diggs. He explores the innermost feelings of the poor, the disenfranchised, and the gangbangers, painting a vivid picture of the harsh realities of life on the streets. His rhymes are raw, uncompromising, and captivating, leaving a deep impression on the listener long after the album has ended.

However, it’s the harsh and distorted production that truly sets CLPPNG apart from other Hip Hop records. The beats are gritty, abrasive, and atmospheric, featuring jarring soundscapes that transport the listener to a world of chaos and uncertainty. The trio experiments with unconventional sounds and textures, utilizing field recordings, found sounds, and glitchy samples to create a soundscape that’s as haunting as it is captivating.

CLPPNG is an album that demands attention, inviting the listener to explore the darkest corners of the human experience. The trio’s use of unconventional sounds and textures, along with Diggs’ dense and disturbing lyrics, creates a sound that’s totally immersive, revealing new layers of meaning and depth with each spin. Despite its challenging nature, the album is one of clipping’s more accessible projects, making it a great starting point for those looking to explore the darker side of experimental Hip Hop.

Death Grips - Bottomless Pit (2016)

Bottomless Pit is Death Grips’s fifth studio album. It was released in 2016 and is widely regarded as one of the group’s best albums to date.

The instrumentals on Bottomless Pit are noisy, frenetic, and unpredictable, with elements of punk, industrial, and electronic music all thrown into the mix. The group’s drummer Zach Hill is once again responsible for the production, along with producer Andy Morin. The result is a sound that is unlike anything else in Hip Hop.

With his raw and aggressive flow, MC Ride delivers confrontational lyrics that touch on a wide range of subjects, including depression, anxiety, and societal decay. His delivery is unrelenting, and he often shifts between a whisper and a scream within the same verse. The combination of his intense delivery and the chaotic production creates a sense of urgency that permeates the entire album.

Bottomless Pit incorporates samples from a variety of sources, including spoken word recordings and film dialogue, to add an extra layer of complexity to the already dense soundscapes, with elements of punk, industrial, and electronic music. The samples are often manipulated and distorted, further contributing to the disorienting and unsettling nature of the album.

Despite its abrasive sound, Bottomless Pit has received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to Hip Hop. The album is not an easy listen, but it rewards those who are willing to engage with its dense, multi-layered production and intense lyricism. Like all albums on this list, it is an album that demands repeat listens to fully appreciate its intricacies.

Bottomless Pit stands out as one of Death Grips’ most cohesive and focused albums. While the production is chaotic and unpredictable, there is a clear sense of purpose and intent behind every track. The album’s title is an apt description of the sound and vibe that Death Grips has created with this record. It’s an intense and disorienting journey into the depths of the human psyche, exploring themes of anxiety, paranoia, and existential dread.

The album’s closing track, “Bottomless Pit,” brings the album to a fittingly chaotic and frenzied conclusion, leaving the listener feeling exhausted but exhilarated. Bottomless Pit is a landmark album in Death Grips’ discography, an essential listen for anyone interested in innovative Hip Hop.

Danny Brown - Atrocity Exhibition (2016)

Danny Brown’s Atrocity Exhibition is an exceptional album that showcases his unique style of rapping and cements his position as one of the most innovative and forward-thinking MCs in the Hip Hop genre. The album, released in 2016, explores themes of addiction, mental illness, and the struggles of being a black man in America.

One of the standout tracks on Atrocity Exhibition is “Ain’t It Funny,” where Danny Brown’s frantic flow is set against a chaotic beat that adds to the song’s dark and twisted vibe. The music video for this track, directed by Jonah Hill, perfectly captures the song’s mood. Brown’s ability to be introspective and entertaining at the same time is showcased in this track.

Another notable song on the album is “Pneumonia,” where Brown delivers his signature style of rapping over a horror movie-like beat. The track’s haunting production creates a sense of unease and contributes to the album’s overall dark tone. “Really Doe” is a standout posse cut that with verses from Kendrick Lamar, Ab-Soul, and Earl Sweatshirt features some of the biggest names in modern Hip Hop. All three artists bring their A-game and contribute to the song’s dark and atmospheric sound.

Atrocity Exhibition is a brilliant album that showcases Danny Brown’s artistic growth. The album’s themes, production, and unique style make it a must-have for any Hip Hop fan looking for an adventurous listening experience.

Armand Hammer - Paraffin (2018)

Armand Hammer is a duo composed of billy woods and Elucid, two Brooklyn-based rappers known for their dark, introspective, and politically charged lyrics. Both artists have made a name for themselves within the underground rap scene, with billy woods having released several critically acclaimed albums over the years. Their third album as a duo, Paraffin, released in 2018, is a masterpiece of experimental production and poetic lyricism, that further solidified their status as some of the most innovative voices in contemporary Hip Hop.

From the very first track, “Sweet Mickey”, it’s clear that this is not your typical Hip Hop album. The production is heavy and experimental, with eerie samples and off-kilter beats. The album is filled with abstract bars that reference politics, social justice, and the struggles of everyday life. Paraffin is a complex album, it’s not the kind of music that you can put on in the background, but rather, it demands your full attention, as you try to decipher the duo’s cryptic verses and make sense of the album’s twisted production.

In a genre that often prioritizes flashy beats and catchy hooks, Armand Hammer stands out for their uncompromising vision. Paraffin is a testament to their creative prowess and a must-listen for anyone who’s looking for music that challenges and subverts expectations.

JPEGMAFIA - Veteran (2018)

Released in 2018, JPEGMAFIA’s Veteran features a blend of experimental beats and politically charged lyrics that create a unique and powerful listening experience. Veteran as a whole is a testament to JPEGMAFIA’s ability to push the genre boundaries of Hip Hop. The album’s production is experimental and daring, featuring a blend of distorted beats, samples, and unconventional soundscapes, an amalgamation of noise, glitch, and punk-rap styles. JPEGMAFIA’s flow is equally unique, with his unorthodox delivery adding to the album’s sense of unpredictability and intensity.

In addition to its experimental sound, Veteran is a politically charged album that tackles difficult and controversial topics. The lyrics of the songs touch on themes of police brutality, racism, and other political and social issues, making it a powerful statement on the current state of affairs.

One of the standout tracks on Veteran is “Real Nega,” which features a distorted beat and JPEGMAFIA’s aggressive flow. The lyrics of the song touch on themes like fascism,  feminism, and hipsterism, making it a politically charged statement that showcases JPEGMAFIA’s willingness to tackle difficult topics.

Another notable track on the album is “Baby I’m Bleeding,” where JPEGMAFIA’s unorthodox flow is set against a jarring and discordant beat. The lyrics of the song have Peggy on the attack, with nothing but quotable like “I’m at the white house, lookin’ for your president”, and “acting like a slave while I’m gunning for my master…”). The song’s production adds to its chaotic nature, creating a sense of unease in the listener.

“Thug Tears” is another standout track on the album, featuring a sample from pioneering electronic Hip Hop duo Mantronix. The lyrics address the harsh realities of life on the street and the emotional toll it takes on people. There are no real weak spots, the whole album is an immersive in-your-face experience, that’ll stay with you.

JPEGMAFIA’s Veteran is a thought-provoking album, its experimental production and politically charged lyrics make it a standout project that keeps listeners on their toes constantly. Veteran established JPEGMAFIA as one of the most exciting and innovative voices in Hip Hop today, and it is an essential addition to any music lover’s collection.

clipping. - There Existed an Addiction to Blood (2019)

Clipping’s There Existed an Addiction to Blood is a bold and daring release that explores the horror genre. This album is not for the faint of heart and will undoubtedly divide listeners, but those who can appreciate the unapologetic experimentation and unrelenting darkness will find a masterpiece that is hard to forget.

Daveed Diggs proves himself to be a talented lyricist with strong and evocative imagery throughout the album. Production on this album is abrasive, dense, haunting, and eclectic, blending various genres to create a unique and immersive experience. The album begins with “Nothing Is Safe,” a track that serves as an introduction to the darkness that lies ahead. From there, it moves on to “Blood of the Fang,” which features a surreal and intense video that perfectly matches the track’s mood. “All In Your Head,” “La Mala Ordina” with Benny The Butcher and Elcamino, “Club Down,” and “Attunement” are other standout tracks that showcase the group’s masterful approach to sound and lyricism.

The album’s closer, “Piano Burning,” is an 18-minute field recording of a piano being burned. While this may seem like an odd choice for an outro, it fits perfectly with the album’s overall theme and creates a haunting and unsettling end to the experience. This album is not one to be taken lightly, and it demands the listener’s full attention to appreciate its depth and complexity fully.

Unlike some other experimental releases, There Existed an Addiction to Blood is not trying to be edgy or innovative for the sake of it; it is a genuinely bold and uncompromising release that deserves recognition for its achievement.

Clipping’s album stands out as an example of how to execute experimentation and innovation with authenticity and integrity. The production on this album is masterful, with each track flowing seamlessly into the next, creating an immersive and cohesive experience that demands the listener’s full attention.

billy woods & Kenny Segal - Hiding Place (2019)

billy woods & Kenny Segal’s Hiding Places is a masterful work of art. With its intricate and dense lyricism, the album explores the complexities of contemporary society through the lens of personal experience, social injustice, and political strife.

Production on Hiding Places is a perfect complement to woods’ lyricism, with Segal’s haunting beats providing a soundscape that is both atmospheric and immersive. From the brooding opening track “Spongebob” to the eerie instrumental on “Red Dust” that closes out the album, every beat is carefully crafted to evoke a sense of unease and dissonance that underscores the themes explored in the lyrics.

woods’ lyricism is dense and complex. His writing is full of literary and cultural references that require careful attention. He paints vivid pictures of a world in turmoil, where social and political forces converge to create a landscape that is at once terrifying and fascinating. Tracks like “Red Dust” and “Spider Hole” showcase his lyrical prowess, as he weaves complex wordplay and metaphors that highlight the harsh realities of life in America.

Hiding Places is an album that is not for the faint of heart. It is uncomfortable at times and requires active engagement from the listener. But the rewards are immense. The album is a powerful exploration of contemporary society and the issues that plague it, proving the power of art to shed light on the darker aspects of human experience and to inspire reflection and action.

In a world where so much music is disposable and forgettable, Hiding Places presented a refreshing change. It is an album that will stay with you long after you’ve listened to it, and that will continue to resonate with you as you navigate the complexities of contemporary society.

Yugen Blakrok - Anima Mysterium (2019)

Yugen Blakrok is a South African rapper known for her abstract lyricism, sci-fi themes, and dark, atmospheric beats. She gained international recognition with her appearance on the Black Panther soundtrack and has released two critically acclaimed albums, including the highly regarded Anima Mysterium.

Anima Mysterium is a deep and immersive journey into the mysterious depths of the universe. The album is characterized by dark, brooding, and atmospheric beats that provide a perfect backdrop for Yugen Blakrok’s abstract lyrics that touch on mysticism, mythology, and science fiction. This album is not for everyone, but it’s a must-listen for the adventurous Hip Hop enthusiast.

From the opening track “Gorgon Madonna,” Anima Mysterium sets the stage for an otherworldly experience. Yugen Blakrok’s flow is hypnotic and draws the listener into her world. The beats are deep, with layer upon layer of sound that creates an immersive and intense experience. On “Obsidian Night,” the production is stripped down to its essentials, allowing Yugen Blakrok’s vocals to take center stage. Her lyrics are cryptic, and it’s easy to get lost in their depth and complexity.

Another standout track on the album is “Mars Attacks.” The track is a collaboration with none other than the iconic Kool Keith. The beat is menacing, and Yugen Blakrok and Kool Keith trade verses with ease, creating a track that’s both hard-hitting and thought-provoking. The track “Monatomic Mushroom” features an infectious beat and a catchy hook that will have listeners bobbing their heads. The lyrics explore themes of consciousness and perception, flaunting Yugen Blakrok’s skill as a lyricist.

Each time Anima Mysterium is played, new layers of sound and meaning are revealed. It’s not often that an album of this depth and complexity is released, and it’s a must-listen for anyone who appreciates dark and challenging Hip Hop.