Outkast's André 3000 is continuing his reinvention from rapper to ambient artist, as he has surprise-released an EP called 7 piano sketches.
Containing exactly what the title suggests, 7 piano sketches features seven tracks of minimalist piano, accompanied only by the occasional sample and brief spoken introductions for each song title. André originally conceived of the project close to a decade ago while living in Texas in a home with little in it — although there was a piano.
In a statement, the musician said, "The original title for it was The Best Worst Rap Album in History and here is an excerpt from the original liner notes: 'It's jokingly the worst rap album in history because there are no lyrics on it at all. It's the best because it's the free-est emotionally and best I've felt personally. It's the best because it's like a palette [sic] cleanser for me.'"
He released the project last night (May 5) to coincide with his visit to the 2025 Met Gala. Hear it below.
This latest ambient project follows his 2023 flute album New Blue Sun.