Back catalogue: Hip Hop/R&B

Review: The fourth album by OutKast, a transcendental funk fantasia and an unequivocal triumph for Southern rap. Andre "3000" Benjamin and Antwan "Big Boi" Patton, known for their inventive personas and distinct styles, push boundaries in this ambitious release. Emerging from southwest Atlanta, OutKast quickly set trends, evidenced by the Kangol hats in Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik. They address identity and location with unparalleled boldness, starting each album with an intro track that proclaims their distinctive Southern voice. Each subsequent album refines their mastery, culminating in Stankonia, where they balanced mass appeal and artistic integrity. Hits like 'So Fresh, So Clean' and 'Ms. Jackson' exemplify this, blending catchy tunes with complex themes becoming household names. Produced mainly by the duo alongside Organized Noize, Stankonia features a sonic collage from influences like Lee Perry and George Clinton. Tracks range from the abrasive 'Gasoline Dreams' to the introspective 'Toilet Tisha,' showcasing their dynamic range. The album is politically conscious yet whimsical, street-savvy yet avant-garde. Over two decades later, Stankonia stands as a revolutionary work, as vibrant and impactful as ever.