Aesop Rock – Integrated Tech Solutions Album Review (AOTM November)

‘Aesop Rock’ stands as one of the enduring figures in alternative rap, having been in the game since 1997, consistently dropping many albums and EPs. It’s truly impressive when an artist with such a long history manages to deliver music that still feels fresh and relevant. Take, for instance, ‘Integrated Tech Solutions,’ a lengthy hip-hop album boasting 18 tracks and just over an hour in duration.

I’m not typically drawn to lengthy albums, but pinpointing any tracks to drop from this release would be challenging. Each track is filled with remarkable beats, each possessing a distinctiveness that sets them apart from the ordinary.

‘Aesop Rock’s flow is another standout feature. Throughout many tracks, he doesn’t follow every beat, instead opting for a more free-form approach. Yet, interspersed within are catchy choruses that effortlessly draw you in. The beats themselves strike a well-crafted balance between organic and electronic sounds, adding an extra layer of interest. Even the tracks featuring artists like Billy Woods and Lealani manage to enhance the album without overshadowing ‘Aesop Rock’ himself.

Among the standout tracks is the opener, ‘Mindful Solutionism,’ evoking shades of ‘Run The Jewels’. Its combination of organic drum tracks, heavy bass, and catchy melodies with a repetitive chorus is bound to stick in your head. ‘Living Curfew’ immediately sets your head bouncing with its slightly faster beat, complemented by an Arabic-influenced guitar and looping old-school vocals.

The collaboration with ‘billy woods’ is seamless, his slower flow providing a compelling contrast to ‘Aesop’s faster pace. While every track boasts its strengths, ‘Bermuda’ featuring ‘Lealani’ emerges as a standout. The slower, slightly claustrophobic atmosphere is masterfully crafted. Upon first listening, ‘Lealani’s chorus might evoke thoughts of an old loop from some of ‘Björk’s songs.

The album’s appeal is further heightened by the fact that ‘Aesop Rock’ not only serves as the MC but also handles the beats. This album is undeniably something that will capture the interest of alternative hip-hop fans.

Aesop Rock – Integrated Tech Solutions

Release Date: November 10, 2023

Album of the Month by Cuberat