The Fun Ones

Released in 2020, The Fun Ones represents a significant stylistic pivot for RJD2, moving away from the indie-rock infusions of his middle period back toward the sample-heavy, funk-driven roots of his debut, but with a much higher production fidelity. The album features a robust cast of collaborators including Phonte, Aceyalone, and J-Live, which provides a vocal anchor to several tracks, yet the record remains fundamentally an instrumental hip-hop showcase. Recorded with a focus on 'fun' as a guiding principle, the album utilizes a mix of live instrumentation and deep-crate samples to create a sound that is both vintage and contemporary. Critically, it was noted for its vibrant energy and its ability to bridge the gap between the underground hip-hop of the late 90s and the modern beat scene. It stands as one of the most upbeat and accessible entries in his discography, emphasizing groove over atmosphere.