Danny Brown has crash-landed into listeners once again with his new album, Stardust.
A Return That Feels Like Re-Entry
Danny Brown, an American rapper known for pioneering modern experimental hip-hop, has consistently pushed the boundaries of flow and production. In past albums like Atrocity Exhibition and Quaranta, he blended off-kilter beats with sharp humor and manic energy. Stardust does the same.
Brown collaborates with Quadeca, underscores, Jane Remover and others to craft a vivid hyperpop- and EDM-influenced sound.
Brown’s 2023 rehab stay inspired the genre shift. He even briefly considered stepping away from music. Hearing hyperpop group 100 gecs reignited his creative spark. Stardust also marks his first studio album recorded completely sober.
This reflective writing shines on the opener “Book of Daniel,” produced by Quadeca, where Brown raps about self-belief and sobriety.
Glittery guitars and hammering bass lead into “Starburst,” driven by jittering vocal chops and pounding drums. The robotic, droning second half shifts the mood. The track also ends with introspective narration from Angel Frost of Frost Children, a voice woven throughout the album.
Next, he reflects on past and current relationships on “What You See,” featuring production and vocals from Quadeca.
A Final Descent Into the Atmosphere
Ultimately, Brown closes the album with the eight-minute breakbeat track “The End,” featuring ta Ukrainia’s autotuned Ukrainian vocals and Angel Frost’s final question: “Can we enjoy something before we crest and sink into sleep forever?”
He follows with “All4U,” produced by Jane Remover, reflecting on his shift from rap dreams to sobriety as he repeats, “Now I do it all for you.” At first, it’s nice to believe he’s speaking purely to the fans. Even so, considering his history and previous rehab stint, it’s clear Brown is talking to himself.
Stardust becomes a glitchy, immersive journey through Brown’s psyche and his recent transformation. As a result, the project feels striking—almost beautiful—leaving listeners feeling renewed. Much like therapy, Brown uses his art to heal while also giving his audience wisdom and wonder wrapped in a futuristic, space-age soundscape.
