Glorious Game

Glorious Game is a collaborative studio album by Philadelphia rapper Black Thought (of The Roots) and the Brooklyn-based cinematic soul powerhouse El Michels Affair. Released in 2023, the project represents a significant stylistic pivot for Black Thought, moving away from the high-energy, orchestral arrangements of The Roots toward a more intimate, sample-focused sound. Producer Leon Michels crafted the tracks using his signature analog methodology, recording live instrumentation to tape and then sampling himself to create loops that mimic the feel of classic hip-hop production. This 're-sampling' technique gives the album a unique texture that bridges the gap between 1960s soul and 1990s boom bap. Lyrically, the album is framed as a series of narratives and 'cautionary tales,' with Black Thought focusing on personal history and philosophical reflections rather than bravado. It was highly praised by critics for its cohesive atmosphere and the chemistry between Michels' dusty arrangements and Thought's dense, storytelling-driven verses.