Armand Hammer, the hip-hop duo consisting of Billy Woods and ELUCID, has been consistently pushing the boundaries of the art rap genre with their thought-provoking lyrics and strange production choices. Their latest album, We Buy Diabetic Test Strips, was released on Aug. 25, 2023, and it is no exception. The album showcased the duo’s unparalleled ability to blend complex themes, planned experimentation, and poetic storytelling into yet another terrific LP.
The album opens with “Landlines,” an interesting track that immediately sets the tone for the album’s clear rap style. ELUCID’s lyricism combined with billy woods’ unique rapping create an atmosphere that’s reminiscent of Kendrick Lamar or other thoughtful rappers, while using quirky background sound effects that certainly stand out.
Throughout “We Buy Diabetic Test Strips,” Armand Hammer doesn’t shy away from tackling complex subjects. For instance, “I Keep A Mirror In My Pocket” touches upon the challenges of loneliness and the power of large societal disdain. Its lyrics are raw and introspective, and through them, the duo tells the story of a confused and brooding person, unsure of what to do and unsure of where to look for answers.
Musically, the album is a sonic marvel. Armand Hammer’s willingness to experiment with various sounds and textures is evident in tracks like “Switchboard,” where haunting choral samples meet unconventional percussion. This willingness to defy genre conventions is a hallmark of their work, making each song a unique auditory experience.
Overall, it is definitely an interesting project, to say the least. Additions of artists like JPEGMAFIA, Cavalier, and many others only serve to add more depth to the already knee-deep LP, and I think that it is certainly a standout among Armand Hammer’s other work. I would say that any fan of rap and general creativity would benefit from listening to this work and reflecting on its meaning and uniquely abnormal melodies.
