B.o.B is trying to make your “soul burn slow” with the release of Ether.
Released via No Genre and Empire, the Atlanta rapper’s fourth album also marks his first independent release since leaving Atlantic. The star-studded 12-track set boasts some of hip-hop and R&B’s biggest names, including Lil Wayne (“E.T.”), Big K.R.I.T. (“Peace Piece”), and Usher and CeeLo Green (“Big Kids”).
Ether also features the Young Thug-assisted “Xantastic” and “4 Lit” featuring Ty Dolla $ign and T.I.
According to B.o.B, this album is a blend of his best work and a reflection on his career thus far. “It’s about balance these days,” he said. “If you look at my career, there’s been a story arc. On The Adventures of Bobby Ray, Bobby goes on an adventure. He smokes some Strange Clouds afterwards. Then, he goes to the nightclub and does urban music in Underground Luxury. He takes some psychedelic mushrooms, has an awakening, and drops conscious projects like Psycadelik Thoughtz.
“Now, I want to take everything and have fun in this culmination called Ether,” he added. “I’ve always believed knowledge plus experience equals wisdom. The experience is kicking in.”
Next month, B.o.B will head out on the road in support of the album. His “Elements Tour” kicks off June 8 in Jacksonville and ends July 27 in Myrtle Beach.
Unleash Ether below.