Tech N9ne, the legendary hip-hop artist from Kansas City, Missouri, has released his 24th full-length album, BLISS. 

Tech N9ne is known for releasing an album every year but took a year off after 2021’s ASIN9NE. That album saw many collaborations but nearly blew up the internet with the video for “Face Off” where Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson spits a verse. 

The album is something of a departure from Tech’s previous work, with a more introspective and thought-provoking tone. 

“It’s a new me,” says Tech. “I’m evolved with a new brain, a new soul, and a new heart. I want to start conversations, so we can find a middle ground even if we are different. We can agree to disagree. I want conversation, and these are my observations. I’m opening up and talking about things I’ve obsessed over. To me, this album is a mirror of society.”

For 76 minutes, the 24-track album blends genres and themes across the gamut.  He features MCs from across the US on “Knock,” with Conway the Machine, X-Raided, and Joyner Lucas laying down head-nodding bars over minor keys with an old school feel. Then there’s “W H A T (We’re Hungry And Thirsty).” It’s on the other end of the spectrum, featuring HU$H and Kim Dracula, the song sounds almost like Nu Metal with its distortions, glitchy electronica and accompanying growls. 

“I’m talking some [stuff] I’ve never talked before,” says Tech. “These songs mean a lot to me. I’m not trying to do what’s hot now; I want forever music.”

One of the standouts is “Fatha Fig Ya (Food For Thought)” featuring RMR. On the track, Tech offers his perspective on life and fatherhood. RMR’s distinctive vocals add a haunting beauty to the track.

“I wanted to give my perspective to the youngsters,” says Tech. “As I sit right now, I’m a father literally offering you a fig of life to eat in the song.”

The album is a collection of many new sounds and topics for Tech, but rest assured there are some familiar faces and themes. Patrick Mahomes gets a shoutout, he’s still very proud of KCMO, and he even reunites with The Popper on the earworm “They Know Meh.” 

BLISS is a challenging and thought-provoking album, but it is also a rewarding one. Tech N9ne has once again shown that he is one of the most talented and versatile hip-hop artists in the world.
BLISS is available for streaming everywhere, and a physical CD can be purchased from Tech’s record label at StrangeMusic.net. Tech will also be touring with Hollywood Undead this fall.  Tickets and dates can be found at hollywoodandn9netour.com.