Them (Themselves album)
Them is the second studio album by the American hip hop duo Themselves, released in 2002 on Anticon.
Background:
Following their debut album it, Doseone and Jel continued to refine their experimental and abstract approach to hip hop on Them. The album is characterized by its dense lyricism, intricate beat production blending electronic and organic elements, and an overall dark and introspective mood. Themes explored on the album include identity, paranoia, and the struggle for artistic integrity.
Music and Lyrics:
Doseone's lyrics are known for their complexity and wordplay, often employing stream-of-consciousness techniques and internal rhyme schemes. Jel's production is equally innovative, incorporating samples from diverse sources and creating intricate rhythmic patterns. The album’s sound is often described as claustrophobic and unsettling, reflecting the themes explored in the lyrics.
Reception:
Them was met with critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its originality and artistic ambition. However, its unconventional nature also made it inaccessible to some listeners. Over time, it has become recognized as a significant and influential work in the underground hip hop scene.
Track Listing:
- Them
- Medicine
- You Ain't Worth a Dollar
- Good People
- This Plane Will Never Land
- Hat
- It Took Everything
- Joyful Toy of 1001 Faces
- The Mark
- Roman Numerals
- Fact Bait
- Out of Sorts
- Deep Water Swim