Released in the spring of 2000, Deltron 3030’s self-titled debut stands as an underground classic. This sci-fi-inspired hip hop concept brought together a supergroup, of sorts, in the form of the trio of Del the Funky Homosapien on the mic, Dan the Automator on production, and Kid Koala on turntables.
Set in a future world dominated by oppressive governments, corporate greed, and technological dystopia, Del takes on the role of Deltron Zero, leading the charge against these sinister forces with his trademark wit, abstract wordplay, and razor-sharp delivery.
Backed by Dan the Automator’s lush, classical, and film score-inspired beats, with Kid Koala adding an extra layer, Del delves into themes such as corporate power, repressive technology, resource exploitation, and the suppression of human freedom.
The album kicks off with ‘3030’ following Damon Albarn’s cameo on the introduction, its orchestral beat carrying Del’s boastful rhymes as he outlines his mission. Albarn also sings the chorus on the excellent ‘Time Keeps on Slipping’ which pre-dates their work on Gorillaz 2001 debut.
Other standout moments include the accordion-driven beat on ‘Things You Can Do,’ the infectious groove of the De La Soul-sampling ‘Positive Contact,’ the rapid-fire rhymes of ‘Mastermind’ where Del battles the album’s main villain, the cyberpunk-inspired ‘Virus,’ and the haunting introspection of ‘Memory Loss,’ featuring Sean Lennon.
Released when underground hip hop was arguably at its peak, Deltron 3030 was a visionary work. It pushed the boundaries of the genre, offering a timely commentary on the post-millennial world that’s done with imaginative storytelling, layered soundscapes, and a sense of humour.
Glass Asylum 