Before I Die is primarily known as the eleventh studio album by American rapper Bones.
Bones (2018 album)
- Artist: Bones (Elmo Kennedy O'Connor)
- Released: February 2, 2018
- Genre: Cloud rap, experimental hip hop, lo-fi hip hop
- Length: Approximately 30-40 minutes (varies slightly by platform due to track counts)
- Label: TeamSESH
- Producer(s): Bones (often under the pseudonym "Elmo"), and various other TeamSESH producers.
Background and Release: Before I Die was independently released by Bones through his TeamSESH collective, consistent with his prolific output and DIY approach to music distribution. The album followed a series of projects released in close succession, maintaining his characteristic frequency of new material. Bones often serves as the primary producer for his albums, frequently using the pseudonym "Elmo," contributing to the distinctive lo-fi and atmospheric sound that defines his work.
Musical Style: The album showcases Bones' signature style, characterized by melancholic and often introspective lyrics delivered through a blend of rapping and melodic singing. The production features sparse, hazy, and sometimes haunting instrumentals, incorporating elements of cloud rap, trap, and experimental electronic music. Themes commonly explored in Before I Die and Bones' broader discography include mortality, existentialism, internet culture, and personal struggles.
Reception: While not typically reviewed by mainstream music publications, Before I Die was well-received by Bones' dedicated fanbase and within the underground hip hop community. It is considered one of his notable releases, further solidifying his position as an influential figure in the evolving landscape of internet-based music. The album's impact lies more in its contribution to his extensive and cohesive body of work, rather than commercial success or chart performance.
Other Uses: The phrase "Before I Die" is a common and evocative expression, and as such, it has been used as a song or album title by various other artists across different genres. However, in the context of a standalone album title, Bones' 2018 release is the most widely recognized.