— Underground hip hop polymath Aesop Rock announces an expanded 10th anniversary edition of his canonical sixth album Skelethon, available on vinyl September 1st from Rhymesayers.
Skelethon represented a pivotal moment in the storied MC’s career, marking both his first fully self-produced effort as well as his first collaboration with his now longtime label Rhymesayers. In celebration of its 10th anniversary, the album has been expanded to a limited edition 3xLP vinyl packaged in a gatefold jacket with updated artwork, printed sleeves, a 4-panel insert with full album lyrics, across two cream & black marble-colored vinyl discs, and a UV printed ultra-clear vinyl disc with four exclusive bonus tracks. In addition to the deluxe 3xLP, there will be a range of new Skelethon themed apparel, including a hooded sweatshirt & three shirt designs, and Rhymesayers will be issuing the Skelethon Instrumentals on vinyl for the very first time.
The album’s title, a portmanteau of “skeleton” and “telethon,” was a metaphor for what felt like a long period of many adversities for Aesop. Across the album’s 15 tracks, he meticulously exhumes and examines these many skeletons in detail, exploring everything from death to distrust, insecurity and isolation, interjected with moments of humor and hope scattered throughout. The album’s many standout tracks include “Zero Dark Thirty,” a rapid-fire exploration of displeasure over dizzying drums, “ZZZ Top,” an impressive ode to youthful expression, and “Cycles to Gehenna,” with its haunting production and imaginative musings.
Upon release, Skelethon was praised for its intricate storytelling that expertly balanced abstract imagery with concrete details, and its immersive production incorporating sample-based beats with dusty pianos, distorted guitars, and psychedelic synths. To this day, the album remains a fan favorite and a critical darling, praised for its poignant introspection and razor-sharp wordplay.
Listen to the deluxe of Skelethon right here. Also be sure to pre-order your merch at Aesop Rock’s official website.