By Patrick Kelton
Alternative hip hop artist Aesop Rock, who ranks as having the largest vocabulary of all major rappers, returns to his Long Island roots when he plays The Paramount in Huntington on Saturday.
The Northport native currently living in Portland, Ore. will take the stage to spit rhymes from his two-decade-deep catalogue of shape-shifting, otherworldly tracks, including fan favorites “None Shall Pass,” “Daylight” and “Preservation.” Those unfamiliar with Aesop may have heard his collaborations with The Weathermen, Hail Mary Mallon, The Uncluded and Two of Every Animal.
“It’s not the most accessible music in the world,” the up-and-coming indie rapper told Guernica magazine when asked to address criticism that his lyrics are too complex. “It may pose a slight challenge to the listener beyond your average pop song. I’m no genius by a long shot, but these songs are not nonsensical.”
Aesop, whose real name is Ian Bavitz, is touring to promote his seventh solo album album, The Impossible Kid, which dropped last April. The album was partly recorded in a barn in the woods where he lived during its production, which explains why it’s his most introspective work to date.
But this won’t be a one-man show. Also performing will be Homeboy Sandman of Queens, plus Rob Sonic & DJ Zone. For those that care about supporting top-notch, underground hip hop artists, this is a show not to be missed.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEBGCOCxLgA
Aesop Rock will be performing at The Paramount, 370 New York Ave. in Huntington at 9 p.m. Jan. 21. For more information, visit paramountny.com Tickets range in price from $20-$45.
