Bringing story, sentiment and authenticity back to hip hop, leading with scene-by-scene depictions of real-life experiences, hardship, and empowerment – founder of Ill Abstract Minds Traé Scott delivers the project of his life this summer, with the depth and dynamic of The Art.
Traé’s fifth studio album to date, The Art features captivating and heartfelt reflections like Parallel Roads, a personal highlight, but also maintains dynamic and variety through anthemic and classic hip hop performances like Illusions.
Before this, we’re introduced to the story perfectly, by the revelations and intimate portrayal of Off The Porch. Then later, the simplicity and detail of Seen It All. Within just the first quarter of the album, Traé Scott secures the listener’s interest, engaging you with realism and relatability alike, and providing the musical eclecticism required to keep things interesting along the way.
Focused on the concept of legacy and a genuine passion for the process of making music, The Art is a celebration of life and the lessons learned when living it.
Born in Pittsburgh and raised in Atlanta, Traé Scott has devoted over twenty years to making music that inspires a sense of understanding and hope. His ambition is to remind people that better days are always incoming, that even when life gets heavy and seemingly impossible, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel; he’s been there himself, and he drives with a level of knowledge and confidence that’s inspiring.
Featuring classic rap skit sections and songs that are musically alluring, enjoyable, and uplifting, The Art raises the pulse for catchy hip hop jams like Second Guessing, then makes sure to reconnect with the humanity and heart of the listener, for the sublime poetry and lo-fi groove of songs like Sunshine. The latter is a catchy summer pop single in a way, with a conscious literary core that’s beautifully impactful, and for these reasons, this track is another highlight from The Art.
Sixteen original and varied hip hop tracks make up The Art, with hugely energising moments like SummerTime providing those good vibes and essential escapism and positivity from the struggle of modern life. Other more introspective outpourings like the brilliance of The Signs Freestyle and the warmth and hopeful beating heart of Safe To Say, contrastingly provide the perfect accompaniment for moments of solitude and quiet ambition.
Versatility is key, but always this quality remains grounded by the truthful bars and vulnerability of Traé Scott, as a leading voice and impressive, creative producer in independent hip hop.
Find out more via Abstract Minds. Find Traé Scott on Instagram.
