Always restless, innovative rapper Astronautalis explores a broader musical palette than ever on his new album Cut the Body Loose, out Friday on SideOneDummy.

The record's kaleidoscopic themes are a result of having "fallen back in love" with the American South, where he grew up (in Florida), Astronautalis tells Andrea Swensson. "The beautiful parts, the weird parts, the creepy parts, the dark parts, the magical parts."

The album's title was inspired by the grief ritual of the traditional New Orleans funeral, when the body is "cut loose" amidst sonorous jazz music.

Astronautalis says, in response to a question, that he's spent "well over 10,000 hours" freestyling, and did us the kindness of improvising a rhyme about the Pythagorean theorem, Wrestlemania, Liam Neeson, wolves, and otters. Listen for yourself to hear how it goes.

"I'm just pleased," he concludes, "I didn't curse."

Astronautalis performs at the Turf Club on June 17, and crosses the river to play the 7th Street Entry the following night. For more on Astronautalis's recent life, listen to his interview on the O.K. Show.

Songs performed

"Attila Ambrus"
[untitled improv]
"Running Away From God"

Hosted by Andrea Swensson
Produced by Andrea Swensson
Engineered by Michael DeMark
Web feature by Jay Gabler
Photos by Nate Ryan

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