Surf (Donnie Trumpet & The Social Experiment album)

Surf is the debut studio album by Donnie Trumpet & The Social Experiment, released on May 29, 2015, as a free digital download via iTunes. The album features a collaborative effort, showcasing the talents of the collective rather than focusing solely on Donnie Trumpet's individual contributions. While Donnie Trumpet is credited as the lead artist, the project emphasizes the group's communal approach to music creation.

The Social Experiment consists of Nico Segal (formerly known as Donnie Trumpet), Chance the Rapper, Nate Fox, and Peter Cottontale. The album also includes numerous guest appearances from a wide range of artists, including B.J. the Chicago Kid, Erykah Badu, J. Cole, Janelle Monáe, Noname, Raury, and many others, contributing to its diverse and eclectic sound.

Surf is characterized by its incorporation of various genres, including jazz, hip hop, soul, gospel, and funk, creating a vibrant and experimental musical landscape. The album explores themes of love, spirituality, community, and self-discovery, reflecting the collective's personal and artistic experiences.

The album's release was accompanied by minimal promotion, relying primarily on word-of-mouth and social media to generate buzz. Despite this, Surf garnered significant critical acclaim for its originality, musicianship, and positive message. It was praised for its refreshing and innovative approach to collaborative music-making and its ability to transcend genre boundaries.