Ancient Astronauts

Into Bass and Time (ESL Music)

Cologne, Germany’s Kabanjak and Dogu – Ancient Astronauts – craft lush soundscapes where galaxy-trotting space aliens beatbox atop Mayan temples. Their futuristic world is brooding, bass-heavy, and under the influence of Deltron 3030. While the production travels spaceways, a collection of guest MCs remains grounded and supremely gifted. Oakland, Calif., wordsmith Azeem spits heavy mental on “The Shining,” and Crown City Rockers frontman Raashan Ahmad keeps pace on “Don’t Stop.” D.C.’s W Ellington Felton brightens the orchestral boom-bap of “Eternal Sunshine,” while Monsoon toasts over the dancehall stylings of “Give It to You.” Perfectly paced, the album’s guided by instrumentals with guests popping up in all the right places. In a hazy flow, Akua Naru confesses to falling in love with an ancient astronaut on “Last Night.” Dive deep enough Into Bass and Time, and you might too. (Fri., 12mid, Malaia Upstairs)

***.5

This article appears in March 18 • 2011.

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Thomas Fawcett has been freelancing for The Austin Chronicle since 2007. He likes good music and does not fake the funk.