Astronautalis

While Cut The Body Loose (2016) may seem like Astronautalis’ most aggressive album to date, to call it angry or pessimistic would be to miss the point. Named for an aspect of a traditional New Orleans jazz funeral when the music guides grievers from heavy, insurmountable suffering to a full-on raucous celebration in the streets, Cut The Body Loose is the sonic equivalent of that same liberating process.

Having started in music over 20 years ago as a battle rapper, Astronautalis’ roots are planted firmly in hip-hop. However, the sounds and styles throughout his discography are an animal not so easily caged. At any point, Astronautalis touches upon shoegaze-laced indie rock, pulsating electronic, swampy Southern-influenced blues, and more. He's worked with Grammy Award-winning producer John Congleton (Modest Mouse, Bill Callahan, St. Vincent), Justin Vernon (Bon Iver), Tegan Quin (Tegan & Sara), members of The Riverboat Gamblers, P.O.S. (Rhymesayers) and more to help craft his undeniably unique style.