It has now been nearly two years since I first heard the aural experience that is Abstract Rude.  The track in question was “God Bless The Elephant” off 2008’s Show You The World by The Grouch, and I was immediately drawn to it because of the perfect balance between Grouch’s fast-paced delivery and Abbey Rude’s laid-back style.

That being said, Abstract Rude carries on that tradition with his most recent album, Rejuvenation.  However, laid-back by no means suggests that the album is boring. He brings a recognizable vibe to the album openers, which include the title track. The fifth song, “Thynk Eye Can,” picks up the heat in more ways than one, with fast-paced delivery and commentary on world affairs, not to mention guest contributions from Aceyalone and Myka 9, who frequently perform with Ab Rude as Haiku D’Etat. 

In other words, Rejuvenation easily lives up to its name, providing a fresh mix of relaxing tracks and head nodders with intelligent lyrics. 

Can you dig it?

I thynk eye can.

Spencer Wadnizak is the hip-hop music director at KUPS 90.1 FM in Tacoma.