Music Reviews
Artist:
Aesop RockTitle:
None Shall PassLabel:
Definitive JuxWebsite:
http://myspace.com/aesoprockwins
2007 has already been a busy year for Ian Bavitz, he has released a 45 minute workout mix for Nike+, penned the music for two short films and teamed up with visual artist Jeremy Fish for a collaborative short story. Now, through Definitive Jux, he is releasing a new Aesop Rock album.
'None Shall Pass' is the fourth Aesop album and contains the usual mix of fast paced stream of consciousness rap, moody beats and well placed samples. It was put together over two years and documents some profound personal changes as well as the eternal themes of relationship building and reaching adulthood.
After three decades in the game Aesop could be forgiven for having lost his edge but his tongue remains as sharp as ever. 'Fumes' sees him take up the tale of a relationship ravaged by drugs while 'The Harbour is Yours' reads like a children's story. The lyrics are not always the easiest to decipher so at times we are left to enjoy the melodic and instrumental tone of his voice, rather the witty social commentary, but in a way that has also been part of Aesop's style.
Production duties were shared amongst long term collaborator Block Head, Def Jux owner EL-P, label mate Rob Sonic and Aesop himself. Its complexity and tightness provide the perfect backdrop to the casual, stream of consciousness rap.
Other collaborations on the album include DJ Big Wiz's attempts to prove that the art of scratching is far from dead, which pop up throughout, and the Mountain Goats' John Darrnielle's appearance on the album closer 'Coffee'.
'None Shall Pass' is out through Def Jux on August 27th, while the single of the same name comes out on August 6th.
