Renowned hip-hop producers The Alchemist and Hit-Boy have confirmed the release of their collaborative album, 'Goldfish'. The project is set to launch on October 24 through EMPIRE. This marks a significant joint effort from two prominent figures in music production, who will also feature as MCs on each other's beats, echoing the style of legendary duo J Dilla and Madlib's 'Jaylib' album.
Accompanying the album will be a short film, also titled 'Goldfish'. The film is expected to include appearances from notable actors such as Danny Trejo, known for roles in films like 'Heat' and 'Con Air', and Simon Rex, recognized from 'Scary Movie 3'. The narrative follows a group of hitmen, operating under the guise of carpet cleaners, as they attempt to exit a life of crime amidst a series of chaotic events.
Key Takeaways
- The Alchemist and Hit-Boy will release 'Goldfish' on October 24.
- The album features both artists rapping over each other's productions.
- A short film with the same title will accompany the music.
- Actors Danny Trejo and Simon Rex are confirmed to appear in the film.
Details on the 'Goldfish' Album and Film
The collaboration between The Alchemist and Hit-Boy represents a notable event in the hip-hop community. Both artists have established careers as producers for numerous high-profile acts. Their decision to rap over each other's beats for an entire album highlights their versatility and individual skills as both beatmakers and lyricists.
The 'Goldfish' album will be distributed by EMPIRE. This label has become a significant player in the independent music sector, supporting a wide range of artists across various genres. The choice of EMPIRE suggests a strategic move to ensure broad reach for the project.
Did You Know?
The Alchemist has produced for artists like Eminem, Nas, and Kendrick Lamar. Hit-Boy's production credits include Kanye West, Jay-Z, and Beyoncé. Together, they bring decades of experience and numerous hits to this joint venture.
The Lead Single: "Business Merger"
The rollout for 'Goldfish' began with the release of its lead single, "Business Merger," last week. This track immediately set the tone for the upcoming album. It features a distinctive production style from The Alchemist, characterized by thumping drums and prominent horn sections. The song demonstrated the strong lyrical abilities of both artists.
In "Business Merger," The Alchemist and Hit-Boy exchanged sharp, confident verses. Fans quickly noted their strong chemistry on the microphone, confirming their talent extends beyond beat production. This performance reminded many that these producers are as skilled as the rappers they often create music for.
"The Alchemist and Hit-Boy's dynamic on 'Business Merger' is a testament to their dual talent. They prove they are not just behind the boards, but also front and center as compelling MCs."
Previous Collaborations and Shared History
The partnership between The Alchemist and Hit-Boy is not new. They have a history of working together on various projects, which explains their evident chemistry. Their previous joint efforts have laid the groundwork for 'Goldfish'.
- Theodore & Andre EP: This three-song extended play showcased their early collaborative synergy.
- Black & Whites: A project that also involved Hit-Boy's father, Big Hit, who is also a rapper. This collaboration further deepened their creative bond.
Beyond these joint EPs, the two producers have also released standalone tracks and shared production credits on other artists' albums. For example, they both contributed to Benny The Butcher's Def Jam debut, Everybody Can't Go. They also released the one-off single "Slipping Into Darkness." These prior works have built anticipation for a full-length album from the duo.
Historical Context of Producer-MC Albums
The concept of two prominent producers rapping over each other's beats has historical roots in hip-hop. The 'Jaylib' album by J Dilla and Madlib is a prime example. This format allows listeners to appreciate the unique production styles of each artist while also experiencing their lyrical contributions. It highlights the often-overlooked rapping talents of many producers.
The Significance of 'Goldfish' for Hip-Hop
The release of 'Goldfish' is significant for several reasons. It brings together two of the most respected producers in contemporary hip-hop. Their combined influence has shaped the sound of countless albums over the past two decades. The project also offers a unique opportunity to hear them step into the spotlight as MCs for an entire body of work.
The accompanying short film adds another layer of artistic expression to the project. The inclusion of well-known actors like Danny Trejo and Simon Rex suggests a high production value and a cinematic vision that goes beyond a typical music video. According to the press release, the film's narrative about hitmen seeking to escape a life of crime promises a compelling visual story.
What to Expect from the Film
The 'Goldfish' short film is described as following a "squad of hit men disguised as carpet cleaners attempting to leave a life of crime in a chaotic flurry of events." This premise suggests a blend of action, dark humor, and perhaps a commentary on the difficulties of escaping one's past. The involvement of actors like Trejo, known for his tough-guy roles, aligns well with this theme.
The combination of a full-length album and a complementary short film demonstrates an ambitious creative endeavor. It aims to provide a comprehensive artistic experience for fans, merging music with visual storytelling. This approach could set a new standard for album rollouts in the genre.
The Alchemist and Hit-Boy's 'Goldfish' project, with its dual focus on music and film, is poised to be a major event in the hip-hop calendar. The album's release on October 24 is highly anticipated by fans and industry observers alike, eager to experience the full scope of this collaborative effort.
