The Roots — Game Theory

Combining hip-hop traditionalism and instrumental experimentalism, The Roots have always brought on some next-level shit. But this time they've taken the elevator to the top and set up a freaking ladder on the roof. Kanye might be pushing things forward with his live orchestrations of regurgitated soul, but The Roots are mainstream hip-hop's real musical innovators. Game Theory — the Illadelphians' first record for Def Jam prez Sean "Business, Man" Carter — pairs samples of everyone from Kool & The Gang to Thom Yorke with dark, varied instrumental textures. From the jarring piano and subtle beatboxing (courtesy of Rahzel) of "Take It There" to the breezy flutes and Eels-ish chorus of "Livin' In A New World," you won't find a hip-hop album as sonically adventurous, rich and detailed as this one.

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