Erick the Architect builds his own beats

Rapper, singer, artist, producer and, since 2010, one third of the Brooklyn hip-hop group the Flatbush Zombies, Erick the Architect has dropped his first full-length solo album, "I've Never Been Here Before.” The title is a sly allusion to where he's at in life — emotionally, physically, professionally, musically — and the 16 tracks within feature collaborations with a range of artists from Lalah Hathaway to James Blake to Joey Bada$$ to George Clinton and more. The result is a kaleidoscopic mix of psychedelic hip-hop, Jamaican dancehall, classic boom-bap rap and neo-soul that reflects an omnivorous musical palate. Today, we discuss his so-called “villain era,” loss and growth, what he hates about contemporary hip-hop, Brooklyn and more.   Brooklyn news and views you can use: bkmag.com Email: hello@bkmag.com Follow along on Facebook: Brooklyn Magazine Twitter: @brooklynmag Instagram: @brooklynmagazine Follow Brian Braiker on Twitter: @slarkpope

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Every week, Brooklyn Magazine: The Podcast highlights prominent (and soon-to-be-prominent) Brooklynites as we explore the vast and diverse borough through the lens of culture, community and commerce. Hosted by Editor-in-Chief Brian Braiker, the show features intimate conversations with cultural luminaries, community leaders and compelling locals. These are the people who move us, entertain us, feed us and inspire us. There are a lot of little Brooklyns, and we are all a little Brooklyn.