Second transmission from Shabazz Palaces on Sub-Pop. Lese Majesty follows the critically-acclaimed debut Black Up and finds former Digable Planets emcee Ishmael Butler and Tendau Maraire further exploring the outer reaches of the hip-hop cosmos. While the first album from the Seattle-based duo was easily one of the most progressive hip-hop releases of 2011, Lese Majesty pushes even further - totally blurring the edges of convention to create a sound that is uniquely its own. The 18 track album is grouped into seven suites, each of which focuses on a particular aspect or direction in SP's seemingly freeform style. Seriously Ish sounds like a sort of space-age prophet over the unpredictable, constantly evolving, synth-laden beats. Check "Forerunner Foray," "Solemn Swears," "Ishmael," "Down 155th In The MCM Snorkel," and "Colluding Oligarchs" for the critical beatdown. Double vinyl (featuring etching on the last side) packaged in rubberized, textured sleeve with printed inner sleeves, and free digital download. Recommended.

• music label: Sub Pop 2014

reviewed by TKB 08/2014