The Chicago rapper returns with a live band in tow for his politically-charged new album.
Just days after announcing it, Common has released his 13th studio album, A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1.
On the nine-track project, the Chicago rapper is backed by a prestigious live ensemble, comprising Robert Glasper on keys, Karriem Riggins on drums, and Burniss Travis on bass, with contributions from singer-songwriter PJ throughout the album. He’s joined by Black Thought on the ABR‘s lead single, “Say Peace,” sparring with the Roots MC over a menacing afro-funk groove. And on the potently political, “A Riot in My Mind,” the rapper welcomes Lenny Kravitz for a swirling hook over fuzzed-out guitars and a mean shuffle.
“Regardless of the outcome of the election, we need to make sure things do not return to the status quo. The intention of the music is to channel all of our pain and outrage into something productive, inspirational, and good,” Common told Rolling Stone in a statement announcing A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1. “Whether you’re waiting in line to vote or relaxing at your home, I hope you enjoy the new music made for these times to bring you some Joy and Love,” he added on Twitter late last night, ushering in the arrival of the new project, whose title suggests there may very well be another installment on the way.
A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1 is entirely produced by Riggins, who’s readying the release of a joint album with Madlib as The Jahari Massamba Unit, and was also at the helm of the rapper’s 2016 album, Black America Again. That project wrangled Stevie Wonder, Bilal, Syd, Marsha Ambrosius, John Legend, BJ The Chicago Kid, and more, for a powerful and inspiring outing ahead of the Trump administration’s all-out subversion of cultural and political standards.
Stream Common’s politically-charged new album, A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1, below and stay tuned for the sequel.