De La Soul Returns with Emotional Tribute Album “Cabin in the Sky”

De La Soul has released its first new album in nearly a decade. The project, titled “Cabin in the Sky,” serves as a powerful tribute to co-founder Dave “Trugoy the Dove” Jolicoeur. He passed away in 2023.

The album arrives as part of Mass Appeal Records’ “Legend Has It…” series. It marks a significant moment for the iconic hip-hop group and its fans worldwide.

Navigating Grief Through a Musical Lens

“Cabin in the Sky” is a 70-minute journey through memory and loss. Surviving members Posdnous and DJ Maseo navigate their grief with artistic grace. The record feels both celebratory and deeply reflective.

It opens with a poignant roll call narrated by actor Giancarlo Esposito. His voice trails off when he reaches Trugoy’s name, setting a moving tone. According to Rolling Stone, the album successfully pushes hip-hop forward while honoring its past.

The musical landscape is rich with chirpy melodies and old-school soul samples. Tracks shift unexpectedly, mirroring the unpredictable nature of processing loss. The production maintains De La Soul’s signature quirky and joyful sound.

A Lasting Legacy in Hip-Hop History

The album solidifies De La Soul’s unique position in music. Few groups have maintained such critical relevance over four decades. Their ability to create event albums remains undiminished.

Longtime fans will recognize callbacks to their classic 1991 album “De La Soul Is Dead.” However, the satirical edge has softened into something more gospel-infused and life-affirming. The group’s evolution feels natural and earned.

Posdnous’s lyrics grapple with mature themes of legacy and responsibility. He reflects on the music industry’s challenges and the importance of family. His delivery carries a weight of experience that only time can provide.

“Cabin in the Sky” ultimately stands as a testament to enduring friendship and artistic resilience. De La Soul has crafted a fitting memorial that celebrates life while acknowledging loss, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire.

Info at your fingertips

When did De La Soul release their last album before this?

Their previous album, “And the Anonymous Nobody,” came out in 2016. This makes “Cabin in the Sky” their first new record in eight years. The gap makes this release particularly significant for fans.

Who are the current members of De La Soul?

The group now consists of Kelvin “Posdnous” Mercier and Vincent “DJ Maseo” Mason. They continue the group’s legacy following the passing of Dave “Trugoy the Dove” Jolicoeur in February 2023.

What is the “Legend Has It…” series?

It is a seven-album series curated by Mass Appeal Records spotlighting hip-hop’s golden era. Other featured artists include Nas, Slick Rick, and Ghostface Killah. The series aims to preserve hip-hop’s past while pushing it into the future.

How does the album handle Trugoy’s absence?

His presence is felt throughout the recordings, which include his vocal contributions. The surviving members weave memories of their friend directly into the music’s fabric. The result is a moving, album-length homage.

What is the overall sound of the new album?

It blends the group’s signature playful style with more reflective, gospel-tinged moments. The sound evokes roller-skating rinks and soul classics while dealing with mature themes. The production is both nostalgic and forward-looking.