Shit-Talk Anthems and Psychedelic Style: Deconstructing Run the Jewels' Brilliance

Analyzing the shift in focus on Run the Jewels, with an emphasis on witty brags, humor, and the duo's ability to deliver intense themes with sophisticated wordplay.

El-P and Killer Mike have strongly connected since their early 2000s solo debuts, Fantastic Damage and Monster. These albums showcased a powerful 808s-and-synths production that demonstrated intense energy. The music also highlighted the artists’ refusal to conform, reflecting the kind of cathartic defiance that experienced no-sellout vets embody. The albums remain highly relevant and impactful even years after their initial releases. It is becoming increasingly clear that El-P and Killer Mike have always been connected, from “8 Steps to Perfection” and “The Whole World” to the present day.

Their decision to continue working together proved to be a wise one. Run the Jewels, their collaborative effort as two MCs and one producer, was intended to be a laid-back, low-stakes victory lap to celebrate a successful 2012. Yet, even as a free 33-minute download, it attests to their idea of fun - a reminder of how much these two artists have achieved.

El-P and Killer Mike demonstrate a shift in focus on their first collaborative album, Run the Jewels, as they focus on the art of 'shit-talk' instead of their usual high-concept storytelling and political science. Most of the album consists of anthems that draw inspiration from early LL Cool J and inject a mean streak reflecting their psilocybin-tinged style. Aside from the confessional closer, “A Christmas F***ing Miracle,” this album serves as a reminder of their ability to throw out witty brags and confident bars.

Run the Jewels' lyrical content is often noted for its intense themes of physical violence and trauma, delivered with a unique combination of humor and sophisticated wordplay. The duo has become known for its ability to craft threatening messages without resorting to shock value tactics, as they continuously strive to up the stakes with their playful and friendly dynamic.

Throughout the process, both MCs have begun to find common ground regarding their personalities. El's initial vocal delivery of panicked rasp has developed into a more refined and fluent approach, producing slick bars and double times that mirror Ludacris' vintage flow. This, in turn, has allowed the comedic acidity to flow more naturally.

Mike showcases his ability to maintain a relentless, wrecking-ball style while incorporating psychedelic delirium and throat-tearing intensity. His highly charged delivery is perfectly suited to narrate stories of outlandish experiences, such as getting a lapdance on mushrooms (“No Come Down”) or pushing the limits on the gritty "Tyson-isms" of “Job Well Done.”

When Mike and El-P trade verses on tracks like "Twin Hype Back," "Get It," and "Banana Clipper," the chemistry between them is evident and raises the question as to why this collaboration was ever considered to be unusual, which the latter features Big Boi. This music is heavy-hitting and designed to be enjoyable, and even Prince Paul joins in with his signature Chest Rockwell shtick on "Twin Hype Back."

El-P takes his production to a new level, creating a boombox-ready sound yet retaining its abrasive and heavy elements. His work captures a dystopian atmosphere, with growling synthesized basslines and distorted percussion reminiscent of analog hip-hop from 1984, 1996, and 2002. These elements create a unified soundscape, reminding listeners that Georgia and New York are both on the East Coast.

El's production style is showcased on this release, with minor-key chord drones, piercing guitar riffs, melodic arpeggios, and dynamic drum patterns. All of these elements are deployed to create a captivating and dynamic sound.

The beats on this project adhere to R.A.P. Music's proclivity for prioritizing vocal force, creating an effect that still packs a punch but does not necessitate references to punk rock to be fully appreciated. RTJ’s album is a distillation of the success of last year's. All unnecessary features have been removed to create a more powerful, faster, and edgier record. While it is a fun listen, one should not mistake its friendly nature for a lack of strength. The band's skill and ability to entertain are evident and undeniable.