A$AP Rocky has always pushed against the edges of hip-hop. After spending time focused on fatherhood and acting, he returns with something different again, leaning into psychedelic textures, alt-rock energy and post-punk attitude.

Some critics are connecting it to a broader movement of Black artists exploring indie rock spaces, sometimes called afro-grunge. 

Whatever name you give it, the mood is hypnotic, experimental and bold. Rocky lets the atmosphere breathe while he floats across it. Here’s “PUNK ROCKY.” My Pick of the Week.

That was A$AP Rocky with “PUNK ROCKY.” If you appreciate when artists color outside the lines, join us every Saturday evening at 6 p.m. on 101.9 WDET and wdet.org for multi-genre journeys.

For The Progressive Underground, I’m Chris Campbell. We’ll see you next time. Peace.