André 3000 has released a new instrumental project, titled 7 Piano Sketches.
As the name suggests, it features seven tracks that are centred around the piano. Each cut is introduced by himself, or collaborators Emmy Paalman and Fatima Robinson reading the song’s title. There are also occasional samples and vocal effects added across the record.
“The original title for it was The Best Worst Rap Album In History,” André 3000 said in a press release. “And here is an excerpt from the original liner notes: ‘It’s jokingly the worst rap album in history because there are no lyrics on it at all. It’s the best because it’s the free-est emotionally and best I’ve felt personally. It’s the best because it’s like a palette cleanser for me.'”
This is the Outkast member’s first record since he surprised fans with the flute-centric album New Blue Sun in 2023. The new record was partially composed and recorded prior to the release of that album. Its roots lie in a period around a decade ago when he stayed in a sparse Texas house with his son that only had a piano, two beds and a few TV screens.
“Having lived with the recordings for a time, André was drawn to the idea of creating more and sharing them in the Spring, a time of year that promises that life, creativity, and possibility are ever-renewing,” a press release said.
Listen to the full album below.
7 Piano Sketches is out now on Epic.
