We’re Only a few months removed from the release of Black Thought’s Cheat Codes, his collaborative album with producer Danger Mouse. After collecting high praise and landing on almost everyone’s “Best of The Year” lists, The Roots co-founder wasted no time basking in his glory and is right back to work. Today, January 11, Thought is announcing another addition to his growing solo catalog, Glorious Game, a collaborative album with El Michels Affair is set to release April 14. Along with the news of the album, they share the first single, “Grateful”, a splendidly odd track that will have you eagerly awaiting the album, as if the idea of new music from Thought isn’t enough.
The relationship between the veteran lyricist and the soulful instrumentalists began casually. Thought first met Leon Michels, founder of El Michels Affair, while the two were performing together at charity events around the east coast and bonded over mutual respect. It wasn’t long after that Thought began to appear at Michels’ recording sessions as the two began their collaborative relationship in-person. It wasn’t until the pandemic hit that Thought began reaching out to Michels for some instrumentals; the emails exchanged during that time have culminated into their 12-track LP set to be released via Michels’ own Big Crown Records.
“Grateful” is an interesting first look into the album, the syncopation used on this track is an artsy and enticing departure from the muddy instrumentals we heard Thought rapping over on Cheat Codes. While the off-kilter instrumental may seem off-putting at first, you are soon drawn in by the unpredictability of the song as wrapped vocal samples interact perfectly with low wind instruments only to have it all interrupted by neck-breaking drum breaks. While the arrangement bounces from one soundscape to the next, Thought is as relaxed as ever. His laid back approach to this spastic instrumental creates a lovely juxtaposition, allowing Thought’s ever-clever songwriting to take shape. Thought pays homage to the ones that paved the way for him in a refreshingly artistic pursuit that makes for an undeniably enjoyable listen.
Glorious Game is set to be released on April 14 via Big Crown Records. You can pre-order your vinyl copy here. Stay tuned for more updates on the album as they are announced and listen to “Grateful” below:
