Thundercat – Drunk (2017)

Thundercat is a man of many talents. A record producer, singer and bassist (six string, obviously), he’s worked with many artists over a multitude of genres, hip-hop to thrash metal. Drunk incorporates his rich tapestry of musical experience to generate something totally distinctive and unique.

Highlights include the ethereally smooth ballad ‘Lava Lamp’ and ‘Walk on By’ featuring Kendrick Lamar, who’s unapologetic rap style takes the listener back to the 90s for a nostalgic hit of old-school hip-hop. ‘Friend Zone’ is different take on a break-up song that will have any listener nodding their head.

Sprinkled with other guest appearances from the likes of Pharrell and Wiz Khalifa, it’s evident that although Drunk is an inside view into the beautifully strange mind of Thundercat, his solo music is still a cooperative process, much like the rest of his career.

This album truly pushes boundaries across the board in the most outrageous ways (Tokyo even features lyrics such as ‘gonna eat so much fish, I think I’m gonna be sick’, need we say anymore?) [sic]. Yet, somehow, Drunk makes eccentric jazz hip-hop accessible to anyone and everyone. A must listen.