Abstracthiphop is a subgenre of hip hop music that defies many of the conventions of the genre and features unconventional beats and lyrics. Most abstract artists do not use traditional rap style lyrics, but instead prefer to convey more abstract concepts such as existentialism or social institutions using extensive metaphors and symbolic word choice.

Artists who are considered to be in this genre include MF Doom, Aesop Rock, Company Flow, Madlib and Flying Lotus. These artists all eschew the braggadocio and over-the-top lyrical content of typical rap, but have been praised for their ability to create lyrical depth through a variety of techniques.

Some of the best abstract hip hop is often found in collaborations between two or more artists; some examples include MC/producer duo 3 Melancholy Gypsies, the aforementioned MF Doom and Aesop Rock, and jazz rap trio Digable Planets with MC Ishmael Butler. This fusion of African percussive instruments with modern, nihilistic electronic beats has resulted in a unique sound that is both dark and challenging.

Mosaic EP (That Rapper) by Abstract – That Rapper

Seven long years after his introduction to Charleston’s hip hop scene, Abstract – That Rapper returns with his first solo album, Mosaic EP. This short 20 minute EP is a great way to get a feel for the overall message of Abstract – That Rapper, who channels the boom bappy lyrical wave of the 90s with an emphasis on positivity over a variety of boom bap beats.