Hip-hop group Digable Planets, despite good reception of their debut album and the classic hip-hop single Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat), did not survive the nineties. The three group members started to experience solo adventures from that point on. Member Ishmael “Butterfly” Butler has by far taken the most exciting journey. Under the name Palaceer Lazaro, the rapper started the project
… Shabazz Palaces and found shelter with the alternative rock / grunge label Sub Pop. Probably the door of the label was open to him because the rapper dares to push boundaries and explore hip-hop territory, without fear of pitfalls or quicksand. The music on his debut record Black Up is as mystical as the name of the project. Unconventional drum patterns, trembling bass lines that constantly fool you build up to climaxes with traditional samples, lamentations and electronic, psychedelic landscapes. As a rapper, Lazaro knows how to mix inimitable phrases with clear phrases, showering the listener with all kinds of feelings. The music on Black Up feels like a wild free fall that ends with a controlled, safe landing. Fascinating! (GL)more