Apollo Brown, the Detroit-based producer renowned for his soulful and intricate beats, presents his fifth studio album, "Thirty Eight," released on April 29, 2014, under Mello Music Group. This album is a masterful blend of underground hip hop and boom bap, showcasing Apollo Brown's signature production style that weaves together dusty drums, lush samples, and a deep, resonant bass.
"Thirty Eight" is a testament to Apollo Brown's ability to create immersive soundscapes that serve as the perfect backdrop for introspective lyricism. The album's 20 tracks, including standout cuts like "Cellophane," "Shotguns in Hell," and "Felonious," offer a journey through the highs and lows of life, love, and struggle. Each track is a carefully crafted sonic experience, with Apollo Brown's production complementing the raw and honest lyricism of his featured artists.
The album's title, "Thirty Eight," is a nod to the age Apollo Brown was when he started working on the project, and this maturity is evident in the album's themes and sound. From the haunting melodies of "The Laughter Faded" to the triumphant anthem "Heaven at Last," Apollo Brown and his collaborators explore a wide range of emotions and experiences, making "Thirty Eight" a compelling listen from start to finish.
With a runtime of just under an hour, "Thirty Eight" is a concise yet powerful body of work that highlights Apollo Brown's growth as a producer and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of underground hip hop. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, "Thirty Eight" is an album that demands your attention and rewards repeated listens.