Tunde Adebimpe – Thee Black Boltz – clashmusic.com

Tunde Adebimpe is best known as the vocalist for New York 00s indie titans TV on The Radio. He has also forged a successful career as an actor appearing in Star Wars series Skeleton Crew and the blockbuster Twisters in 2024. He now brings out his debut LP ‘Thee Black Boltz’ an eclectic mix that shows off a different side to him as an artist.
‘Magnetic’ has the energy that the best TV on The Radio tracks bring, but with more of an electronic tinge, it is irrepressible and hard to resist.  It may be short at just two minutes 30 but it lives long in the memory, a middle section built around his vocals and drumbeats is especially impressive. It is certainly a statement way to kick off the album and let fans know that this project is exciting in its own right. 
‘Ate The Moon’ brings a similar flavour, Adebimpe’s vocals again standing out, showing he hasn’t lost a step in the last 25 years. There is a compelling sense of storytelling in this track, heavier than his work with TV on The Radio but mesmerising regardless. 
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‘Pinstack’ is more of an indie number built around disorted guitars and drums. As with TV On The Radio there is a wealth of influences and a sense of experimentation. Again there are moments where most other instruments cut out, really bringing the strength of his vocals into view. Drop has more of a funk and hip hop influence, a departure from some of the other tracks but it works cohesively.
‘ILY’ shows his range as a vocalist, bringing a softer, more acoustic feel. An almost folk rock track it’s one of the most soothing tracks on the record but really shows that this is an album full of heart and depth and clearly very personal. 
‘Thee Black Boltz’ is a fascinating side project for Tunde Adebimpe, with recognisable flourishes from TV on The Radio but so much more besides. It really spotlights his artistry and musical intelligence ranging from indie, electronic and folk. With so much going on it would be easy for it to be overbearing but he finds a way to bring it all together and flow wonderfully. With TV on The Radio touring later in the year it is likely more of a stopgap but for a first solo foray, there is much to admire here. 
8/10 
Words: Christopher Connor
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