Kamaal The Abstract

after eight years in label limbo, q-tip's 2001 lp 'kamaal the abstract' finally gets to see the light of day. 'kamaal the abstract' is an intensely idiosyncratic and revealing record. to that end, q-tip produced the entire album himself, even playing several instruments. what comes from kamaal is a daring mlange of soul, supa-cool jazz, headnodding hip-hop, and organic pop magic in the vein of stevie wonder or prince. check for the superlative figures of saxophonist kenny garrett, a one-time member of miles davis' ensemble, on the breathy 'abstractionisms.' or the fluid flute lines of gary thomas, another davis sideman, on 'do u dig u' elsewhere, note tip's ambitious production, arrangements, and even sung stylings.