Atlanta-based rapper and singer André Lauren Benjamin, commonly known by his stage name André 3000, released his debut studio album “New Blue Sun” on Nov. 17.
It is the first full-length album in 17 years from Benjamin, who is most known for his work with rap duo OutKast. Instead of being a rap album as he is most known for, “New Blue Sun” is a lush flute-based instrumental album that is absolutely gorgeous.
Though many fans are reasonably shocked by the rapper returning as a flutist with an experimental ambient project, “New Blue Sun” is a brilliant —if understated— showcase of Benjamin’s incredible musicianship.
The album is an ambient, jazz-inspired soundscape that features no drums or vocals and is largely driven by Benjamin’s gorgeous flute playing accompanied by a wide range of backup instruments.
The first track on the album, titled “I Swear, I Really Wanted to Make a 'Rap' Album but This Is Literally the Way the Wind Blew Me This Time” tells you just about everything you need to know about “New Blue Sun,” both literally and musically.
The 12-minute intro track is a slow-burning symphony of repetitive synths and chimes that is a joy to listen to and despite its long runtime and repetitive flute melody, it never feels like it gets old.
I can say that about the album as a whole. I never truly felt bored upon any of my listens, which is impressive considering its hour and a half long runtime with songs that last upwards of 17 minutes.
“BuyPoloDisorder's Daughter Wears a 3000® Button Down Embroidered” is one of my favorite tracks on the album with synths and instrumentation that remind me of his hip-hop roots. It reminds me of a lot of producers such as Brian Eno and Aphex Twin.
There’s an incredible, almost experimental range of sounds and influences on this album, from soul and r&b-inspired rhodes movie soundtrack-inspired strings.
The piano melodies of “Ghandi, Dalai Lama, Your Lord & Savior J.C. / Bundy, Jeffrey Dahmer, and John Wayne Gacy” are both dramatic and incredible and the track goes from relaxing to straight up haunting with melodies that eerily clash with each other.
I’ve heard a lot of critically acclaimed ambient music before, and a lot of it isn’t for me.
I’m generally not a fan of music that isn’t made for active listening, but “New Blue Sun” reeks of Benjamin’s unique personality.
Each of the track titles are ridiculous and imaginative. The album is littered with a sort of experimentation and charm that most ambient albums lack.
There’s countless moments of left-field instrumentation all throughout “New Blue Sun” that always keep the sound fresh, with no two moments sounding the same.
Even though many fans (including me) are still holding out for a rap project from Benjamin, “New Blue Sun” isn’t exactly a complete left turn from his previous work. OutKast’s work is heavily influenced by jazz and ambient music, especially their 1996 album “ATLiens,” which is one of my favorite hip-hop records of all time.
If you’re looking for catchy hooks to jam to, look elsewhere. You will absolutely get bullied by your friends if you put this album on the Aux in the car. I won’t be putting any of these songs on my playlists any time soon.But if you are looking for something beautiful to listen to while you study or fall asleep, “New Blue Sun” is a fantastic choice. I can imagine there’s going to be plenty of great rap songs that sample this album in the next few years.a
Benjamin’s flute playing is really wonderful to listen to and it’s something I hope he explores more. He’s such an accomplished musician who has already proved countless times that he’s among the best and I am happy to hear any future release from him.
