Drunk vinyl LP by Thundercat - of a wildly creative R&B record

In this review of Drunk, Thundercat returns with an album that will most appeal to listeners who prize adventurous musicianship and playful songwriting. The bottom line: this record is for fans of jazz-influenced R&B and adventurous pop who want bold melodic ideas and impeccable bass work. Stephen Bruner, credited here as Thundercat and released on Brainfeeder, delivers a record that reads like a musician's statement as much as a singer-songwriter album, and the presence of guest producers and vocalists keeps the listening experience varied and surprising.

Key Features

• Artist and Vision: Thundercat's virtuosic bass playing and off-kilter melodies drive the album, giving it a distinct musical identity that stands out from typical R&B releases.
• Production: Released on Brainfeeder with production from Flying Lotus, the album benefits from textured, experimental production that complements the songs without overwhelming them.
• Guest Vocals: High-profile features from Kendrick Lamar, Pharrell, Wiz Khalifa, Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins add diverse vocal colors and memorable moments across the tracklist.
• Songwriting: The record blends witty, playful lyrics with serious musicianship, producing melodic hooks alongside moments of improvisational flair.
• Musical Range: Listeners get a mix of jazz fusion touches, hip hop inflections and soulful passages that showcase Thundercat's broad influences and collaborative history.

Who It's For

This album is ideal for listeners who enjoy boundary-pushing R&B and jazz fusion, especially those who follow modern LA-based experimental scenes. Fans of artists who balance technical skill with accessible songwriting will appreciate the combination of virtuosic bass lines and singable melodies.

Buyers who prefer straightforward pop structures or minimal production might find some tracks indulgent; the record rewards attentive listening and familiarity with improvisational music more than casual background play.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional musicianship and bass work that elevate each arrangement.
• Creative production from Brainfeeder and Flying Lotus that keeps the album fresh from track to track.
• Memorable guest appearances that broaden the album's sonic palette and create standout moments.

Cons

• Some listeners may find the experimental moments and wild detours less accessible than conventional R&B.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Drunk is a rewarding listen for anyone who values creativity, melodic invention and top-tier musicianship. While a few experimental detours may not suit every listener, the album's strong songwriting, distinctive bass performance and varied guest spots make it a compelling purchase for fans of adventurous R&B and jazz-tinged music.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this album collaborative?
Yes, the album features notable vocal contributions and production input from collaborators like Flying Lotus and several guest vocalists.

What style of music is Drunk?
The record blends R&B, jazz fusion and hip hop elements into a playful and musically ambitious whole.

Who produced the album?
Drunk was released on Brainfeeder and includes production work from Flying Lotus among others.