The Ablist

Influenced by Herbie Hancock's "Rockit," The Ablist melds jazz and hip-hop. Swift introduces the turntable as a virtuosic instrument, playing it solo and with a band. Many songs explore ways not yet heard. "What Would You Do?" uses scratches as an instrumental answer. "Fusion Beats" shows it can be a jamming instrument with keyboard interplay. It's also in a full-band context on "Modern Day Music" and "All that Scratching Is Making Me Rich!"

With production akin Large Professor, Swift crafts a strong personal statement, echoing old-school skills without becoming a pastiche. Redefining turntables as a musical instrument, The Ablist suggests paths for hip-hop, occasionally frustrating but capable of incisive music.