OutKast - ATLiens (25th Anniversary) (4LP)

OutKast - ATLiens 25th Anniversary Deluxe Edition 4xLP Vinyl Record

2021 saw OutKast celebrate the 25th anniversary of "ATLiens", the cinematic hip-hop masterpiece that rocketed the duo (André 3000 and Big Boi) into the mainstream stratosphere from their Atlanta underground music scene launchpad. This 25th Anniversary Deluxe Edition of "ATLiens" features the original album in its entirety bundled with a full-length collection of 14 previously unreleased instrumental tracks, all remixed in high quality.

Coming only a few years after their debut, Outkast's sophomore release, "ATLiens" took a much different musical approach. The dusky, mystical thematics from the cover translated perfectly to the record. Outkast's excessive charisma became laid back, human and introspective, as the beats became quieter and emptier"”but without losing their smooth, melodic hooks. Similarly, the topics became even more personal and relevant, still injecting certain lines with lovable charm, but opening the door to important conversations. This understated look at hip-hop distanced "ATLiens" from the duo's past and future discography, while also laying the ground for some of Outkast's best lyrical work ever.

Pressed on Classic Black Vinyl

OutKast's "ATLiens" is a landmark album that celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2021, and it remains a pivotal work in the hip-hop genre. Released on August 27, 1996, "ATLiens" was the second studio album by the Atlanta-based duo, consisting of André 3000 and Big Boi. This album marked a significant evolution in their sound and lyrical content, showcasing their growth as artists and their willingness to experiment with new styles.

"ATLiens" was a commercial success, debuting at number two on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually achieving double platinum status. The album's success was not just in sales but also in its critical reception. It was praised for its innovative production and the duo's lyrical prowess. The production, handled by Organized Noize along with OutKast themselves, was a departure from the more traditional Southern hip-hop sound of their debut album, "Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik." Instead, "ATLiens" featured a more spacey, futuristic sound that incorporated elements of funk, soul, and even some psychedelic influences.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Elevators (Me & You)," which became a hit single and is often cited as one of OutKast's signature songs. The track's laid-back beat and introspective lyrics about the duo's rise to fame resonated with listeners and showcased their ability to blend personal storytelling with catchy hooks. Another notable track is "ATLiens," the title track, which further explores themes of alienation and identity, a recurring motif throughout the album.

The album's title, "ATLiens," is a clever play on words, combining "ATL," a nod to their hometown of Atlanta, with "aliens," reflecting their feeling of being outsiders in the music industry and society at large. This theme of feeling like outsiders is prevalent throughout the album, as André 3000 and Big Boi explore their identities and experiences growing up in the South.

Critically, "ATLiens" was well-received and has since been regarded as a classic in the hip-hop genre. Publications like Rolling Stone and The Source praised the album for its originality and the duo's lyrical depth. Over the years, it has been included in numerous "best of" lists, cementing its status as a seminal work in hip-hop history.

In terms of cultural significance, "ATLiens" helped to put Southern hip-hop on the map at a time when the genre was dominated by East Coast and West Coast artists. OutKast's unique sound and style challenged the stereotypes of Southern rap and opened the door for other Southern artists to gain national recognition.

The 25th anniversary of "ATLiens" was celebrated with a special reissue that included previously unreleased tracks and remixes, giving fans a deeper look into the creative process behind the album. This reissue was a reminder of the album's enduring impact and its influence on subsequent generations of artists.

Overall, "ATLiens" is a testament to OutKast's creativity and their ability to push the boundaries of hip-hop. It remains a beloved album for fans and a touchstone for artists who continue to draw inspiration from its innovative sound and thought-provoking lyrics. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to OutKast's music, "ATLiens" is an album that deserves a place in any music lover's collection.