Adult Swim Singles, 2013: Run The Jewels - "36" Chain" (El-P & Killer Mike)

Have you ever heard of one of those couples that've been "romantically involved" for FOREVER and have a couple kids together, only to finally get married 10-15 years later? Well, that's basically the kinda relationship El-P & Killer Mike have; 2 long-time rapper/producer friends who have been working together for years, released a joint R.A.P. Music album last year, and have finally locked down an official, albeit LL Cool J-inspired group name: Run The Jewels. While preparing their self-titled street album [mixtape] debut, Run The Jewels have teamed up with Adult Swim & Williams Street Records to unleash a glitched-out new single, "36" Chain." It's the first in a series of 15 weekly digital singles, which this year, is set to feature choice cuts from... Lil B, kitty pryde, Marnie Stern, Madlib & Freddie Gibbs, Lightning Bolt, Dan Deacon, Captain Murphy, Miguel, Pig Destroyer(?), and more! Karriem Riggins, Viktor Vaughn [MF DOOM], Hot Sugar, and Mykki Blanco are also set to make a few special appearances. Adult Swim will upload a new single each week for the remainder of the summer, in addition to some special content (supposedly the "36" Chain" music video, too).


But back to "36" Chain," it's a LEGIT trunk-rattling sonic assault! Unlike their previous collaborations, El-P manages to step out from behind the boards long enough to effectively split vocal duties with buddy Killer Mike, and a spirited battle of lyrical wits ensues. Run The Jewels are currently on tour across America with Kool A.D. & Despot, which runs through August; ahead of their FREE Fool's Gold album (June?) that'll also be re-released in some sort of "deluxe, limited edition 2xLP vinyl," version on Williams Street Records soon thereafter, too. Run The Jewels' team has configured one Hell of an album roll-out plan, leaking 2 buzz-worthy tracks so far, "Banana Clipper" [-feat. Big Boi] and "Get It." I must say, even as a mega-fan of both Cancer 4 Cure and R.A.P. Music, El-P & Killer Mike really managed to craft some exciting, next level Hip-Hop! This is where it could get a little confusing, if you don't pay close attention: Now, Run The Jewels is not only the title of El-P & Killer Mike's newly-formed group and upcoming album, but also a special brand of Goose Island-crafted beer! Okayplayer notes that in celebration of the Pitchfork Music Festival's return to Chicago this summer, Goose Island Brewery has brewed up "a two-headed, sucker-MC destroying monster and a dry-hopped Belgian wheat ale, with 5.4% alcohol content," conveniently named after Run The Jewels ha.