In the realm of rap, where youth often dominates, Ishmael Butler stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of the old guard. While many legends rely on past glories, Butler, at 54, consistently pushes the boundaries with his Shabazz Palaces project, blending Afrofuturism and electro-funk into a cosmic exploration that transcends time. With the release of his mini-LP “Robed in Rareness,” Butler not only leads the vanguard but embodies it. In the standout track “Woke Up in a Dream,” a family affair featuring his son Lil Tracy, Butler orchestrates a sonic journey. Over grimy synths and intricate hi-hats, he effortlessly weaves together words, creating lyrical gems that flow like a serene river stream. “Every time I bless a script, it’s a precedent,” he asserts, claiming his role as the President of the jiggy OGs.
Ishmael Butler serves as a vital link between rap’s golden age and its contemporary landscape. Since his emergence with Digable Planets in 1993, Butler has remained a relevant voice in the genre. After Digable disbanded in ’95, Butler’s brief silence was followed by the birth of Shabazz Palaces, a project that reinvented his aesthetic and musical exploration. From early records like “Black Up” (2011) to “The Don of Diamond Dreams” (2020), Butler consistently pushes the boundaries of Shabazz Palaces. “Robed in Rareness” maintains this trajectory, guided by vibes and aspirations as much as impactful musical moments. While some may find the album less urgent compared to previous Shabazz releases, it embodies Butler’s contentment with his signature sound. Whether this resonates with listeners is a matter of taste. Yet, few artists have sustained excellence as long as Ishmael Butler, and the light, nimble, and casually profound nature of “Robed in Rareness” makes it a delightful interlude in the rich tapestry of the Shabazz Palaces discography.
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