But it IS the finest non-trip-hop psychedelic hip-hop album out there (that's a bit too niche a market to aim for, but he's selling records so is obviously doing something right).
The album is archetypical summer music. Whether you're driving with your windows down, or enjoying a refreshing hops-based alcoholic beverage in the sun, or smoking illegal substances (not an activity I like to partake in, but I know lots of people do, and I don't want to exclude them because I'm a nice guy) this album will capture (and enhance) your positive emotions.
So, what makes Tobacco special? Let's identify the elements.
1) Lo-Fi production - The use of analogue synthesisers and tape music is sweet and leads to some very thick sounds. The first track, "Street Trash" is a particularly strong example of this. The bass synth is covered in noise, making a fuzzy sound over low beats for a head-popping experience. It reminds us all of the variety of sounds that can't really be replicated by digital technologies.
Also, vocoders being used well. Not like the kiddies with their microKORGs and trendy rock bands and haircuts. No, not at all. As seen in "Dirt", the vocoder is used to enhance the psychedelic experience, rather than use as a spot-effect. Which is lame.
2) Hooks galore - This is not Animals as Leaders. I'm not expecting a technical experience using 12 different chords in 4 bars in a 13/8 time signature in Diminished Lydian mode in D. I'm expecting something cool and catchy, and Tobacco never fails to deliver this, with ever-so-hummable leads which will buzz around your head like a disabled fly in a glass box. The harmonies that Tobacco does offer are always used effectively.
At times I take a step back from the album and note that, in reality, the album actually offers very little in terms of musical phrases. In fact, since there are 16 tracks on the album, I'd say that there are probably about 16 different intrinsic musical phrases. But I suppose this adds to the hypnoticism of the album.
3) Feels good man (or inc.) - Since you have access to the internet, there are probably moments during your life when you feel unhappy, since the internet=sadness. But fear not, because this is cheerful as fuck. And danceable. If you want to feel gloomy and think of your ex-girlfriend whilst masturbating and crying (followed by a quick self-harm session), don't listen to this album. Go for "Third" by Portishead.
Actually, as part of a social experiment conducted and carried out by me, James Skelly, I have this task for you: Start your masturbating and crying session (whilst thinking about your ex), and whilst doing so play the song "Grease Wizard" on repeat. My hypothesis is that you will become too happy to continue. Please post your results, preferably with before and after pictures as scientific evidence.
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