3 Songs: On Repeat - Shabazz Palaces Edition

Shabazz Palaces, is the experimental hip-hop project led by Ishmael Butler, aka Butterfly of 90’s jazz-rap pioneers Digable Planets.  Along with multi-instrumentalist Tendai 'Baba' Maraire, the Seattle based duo create a totally unique brand of rap with thoughtful, challenging lyrics and highly-inventive futuristic sounds. 

Tomorrow they will release two new albums via Sub Pop Records, Quazarz: Born on a Gangster Star and Quazarz vs. The Jealous Machines.  The albums follow a sci-fi themed concept featuring a fictional rapper named Quazars alongside biting social commentary; dealing with relying on technology and celebrity culture and fandom.  Additionally, an illustrated version of the album will be available that provides the perfect visual accompaniment with a 32-page book illustrated by cartoonist Joshua Ray Stephens.      

Here are 3 of my favorite songs from the two new albums:

“When Cats Claw” – (Taken from Quazarz: Born on a Gangster Star, the standout track features buzzing electronics and echoing, multi-tracked vocals.) 

Stream: https://soundcloud.com/subpop/shabazz-palaces-when-cats-claw

“Shine A Light (feat. Thaddilac)” – (The single taken from Quazarz: Born on a Gangster Star combines swirling, cinematic strings and a clacking beat with one of the duo’s catchiest hooks ever – sung by guest, Thaddilac.)

Stream: https://soundcloud.com/subpop/shabazz-palaces-shine-a-light-feat-quazarz-thaddillac

“Julian’s Dream (ode to a bad) [feat. The Shotgun Shot]” – (A throbbing beat and the Palaceer’s effortlessly smooth voice and flow highlight this standout taken from Quazarz vs. The Jealous Machines.)

Stream: https://soundcloud.com/subpop/shabazz-palaces-julians-dream-ode-to-a-bad

For more info: https://www.subpop.com/artists/shabazz_palaces