Having created tracks for a host of independent hip-hop artists, like Aesop Rock and Atmosphere's Slug, the Opus embarks on its sophomore effort, Breathing Lessons. The eleven-track package features a blink-and-you'll-miss-it appearance by emcee Lord 360, otherwise, this is an all-instrumental affair. Aspiring rhymers will want to flow along with these ever-evolving soundtracks (often toeing the line between hip-hop and low-RPM drum and bass); but ultimately, this album proves Opus' complex compositions are engaging in their own right. As the jazzy, bass-heavy opening track winds down ("Fanum's Organs"), the drums disappear and a vocal sample repeats, "It dissolves through the skin," while the next score ("Mission Control") simultaneously creeps up in the background. Like the vocal sample suggests, the songs on Breathing Lessons often dissipate into one another - it may take a clear, mid-track breakdown before casual listeners realize their ears are knee-deep in a Phil Spector-like Wall of Sound. Despite the intricate layering of instruments, vocal samples, orchestral washes and splintered percussion, the creations are given ample room to expand and breathe, aging like a fine wine (and lasting an average of five minutes each). It wouldn't be fair to pigeonhole the Opus' music as abstract hip-hop or moody acid-jazz, but these are steps in the right direction. The duo has gained acclaim for its collaborative work with emcees, but this album puts their talents in the foreground. Adventuresome listeners and fans of innovators like Dj Krush and El-P should check this out. - Grapevine |