The 10-track Beloved! Paradise! Jazz!? unspools as a powerful pastiche of sound and emotion. The title pays homage to Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison’s immortal trilogy of novels, who McKinley has previously referred to as “the greatest rapper ever.”
As such, he continues her tradition of intense introspection and uplifting escapism with a sobering perspective on the modern American experience. In a similar fashion, he delivers deliberate and dynamic lyricism befitting of her creative cadence. Rounding out the vision, the LP also boasts guest appearances from poet and writer Hanif Abdurraqib, Teller Bank$, Alfred., Ghais Guevara, Anjimile, Seline Haze, and more.
The project notably features “Dedicated to Tar Feather” featuring Boston-based folk artist Anjimile, which serves as a message to McKinley’s younger self set to symphonic instrumentals. It is intended to juxtapose “B.B.N.E.” from his 2021 album For My Mama And Anyone Who Look Like Her.