The pairing of upstate New York’s producer/engineer Abs01ute and emcee Shyste has proven to be quite a successful partnership thus far, with the two teaming up for an ambitious concept album titled Lord of the Flys.

The duo’s debut project draws influence from the 1954 novel, Lord of the Flies, creating a direct parallel to today’s political and social climate by highlighting a variety of themes discussed in the original writing of Nobel Prize-winning author William Golding.

Lord of the Flys, which its creators reveal was roughly four years in the making, spans 17 tracks and features sampling from the 1990 film of the same name. For guests, Abs01ute and Shyste recruit the likes of J57, DJ White Lotus, Rah Jones, Sween and Xkwisit.

The album, which tactfully plays with themes of conflict, emotion and deeper philosophical questioning, was built on top of obscure samples from Japanese records from the 1950s and 1960s, all while also drawing from a clear 90s hip-hop influence.

With Abs01ute taking the wheel regarding the overall sound and vision of the project, his chemistry with Shyste in the booth is undeniable, with both finding a common creative ground to help shape the dynamic and stirring narrative.

Take a listen to Abs01ute and Shyste’s debut album, Lord of the Flys, below.