Kassa Overall’s “Cream”: A Bold Reimagining of Hip-Hop Classics Through a Jazz Lens
GRAMMY-nominated jazz visionary Kassa Overall has unveiled his fourth solo studio album, “Cream,” a meticulously crafted collection that flips the script on beloved hip-hop anthems. Released on September 12, 2025, via Warp Records, the album sees the Seattle-born drummer, producer, and bandleader transforming iconic tracks from the 1990s and early 2000s into expansive, instrumental jazz pieces. “Cream” is not merely a cover album; it’s a profound exploration of the intrinsic connection between hip-hop and jazz, presented with a rigorous, live-performance ethos.
The Genesis of a Genre-Bending Project
Kassa Overall has long been at the forefront of artists who seamlessly blend the worlds of jazz and hip-hop. His background is steeped in both traditions: raised in Seattle, he honed his drumming skills in the renowned Garfield High School jazz band before studying percussion at the Oberlin Conservatory. It was during his academic years that Overall confronted the perceived divide between genres, pushing back against faculty who endorsed his jazz studies but not his passion for hip-hop beatmaking. This inherent duality has shaped his artistic trajectory, leading to projects that intricately weave these sonic languages. His previous albums, including “Go Get Ice Cream and Listen to Jazz” (2019), “I Think I’m Good” (2020), and “Animals” (2023), have consistently explored this rich continuum.
“Cream” represents a full-circle moment for Overall creatively. The album’s concept emerged from a desire to pay homage to the twin passions of his youth—hip-hop and jazz drumming in the tradition of legends like Elvin Jones. In an artistic reversal of the convention where hip-hop albums sample jazz, Overall strips away the samples and drum machines, opting instead for pure, unadulterated live instrumentation. “This album is almost a boomerang response to all my previous work,” Overall explains. “No edits, no overdubs, no samples or drum machines. Just a great group of musicians playing together. It just so happens that the compositional material we are drawing from is rap records I grew up on!”
Transforming Hip-Hop Staples into Jazz Standards
The tracklist for “Cream” is an audacious selection of foundational hip-hop tracks, reimagined by Overall and his stellar band. The instrumental reinterpretations breathe new life into familiar hooks, transforming them into rhythmically adventurous, witty, and often sublime jazz compositions. Among the featured classics are The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Big Poppa” and “C.R.E.A.M.,” Wu-Tang Clan’s “C.R.E.A.M.,” Dr. Dre’s “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang,” A Tribe Called Quest’s “Check the Rhime,” OutKast’s “SpottieOttieDopaliscious,” Digable Planets’ “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat),” and Juvenile’s “Back That Azz Up.” The album also features a jazz standard, “Freedom Jazz Dance.”
Each track is deconstructed and rebuilt with a jazz sensibility. For instance, “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like That)” transforms the original conga pattern into a drum break and its iconic lyrics into a drum fill, restoring a swing feel reminiscent of Art Blakey. Notorious B.I.G.’s “Big Poppa” is rendered as a sensitive, odd-tempo bossa nova tune, while Juvenile’s “Back That Azz Up” becomes a cinematic, sensitive swing piece.
The Musicality and Artistic Philosophy of “Cream”
“Cream” highlights Kassa Overall’s mastery as a producer, drummer, and arranger. By eschewing samples and digital manipulation, he allows the pure musicianship of his band to shine, creating a sound that is both sophisticated and deeply soulful. The project embodies his genre-fluid approach and his commitment to pushing jazz forward, offering a fresh perspective on what is often called the “Great American Songbook” – by re-examining the rich legacy of Black American music.
Overall’s artistic philosophy extends beyond musical boundaries. His lyrics have often delved into personal struggles with mental health and observations on the realities of being Black in America. This introspective depth, combined with his experimental musical approach, creates a compelling and original artistic voice. The album’s title, “Cream (Cash Rules Everything Around Me),” nods to the Wu-Tang Clan’s seminal track while also serving as a commentary on societal values.
Critical Acclaim and Legacy
Since its release, “Cream” has garnered significant attention from critics and music enthusiasts alike. Kassa Overall’s ability to bridge the perceived gap between hip-hop and jazz has been widely lauded, positioning him as a significant force in contemporary music. His work has received support from diverse artists and tastemakers, including Thom Yorke, Iggy Pop, and Virgil Abloh, underscoring his broad appeal. The album’s release solidifies Overall’s status as a leading voice in contemporary jazz, celebrated for his innovative arrangements and thoughtful song selection.
“Cream” is more than just an album of hip-hop covers; it is a testament to Kassa Overall’s innovative spirit and his profound understanding of the interconnectedness of musical genres. It invites listeners to experience familiar music in an entirely new light, celebrating the enduring power and dialogue between jazz and hop.
