Podcast Summary: Dissect - "Clipse is Back! Breaking Down 'Let God Sort Em Out'"

Release Date: July 14, 2025
Host: Cole Kushner
Guest: Charles Holmes

Introduction to Clipse's Return

In this special episode of Dissect, host Cole Kushner welcomes longtime hip-hop enthusiast Charles Holmes to delve into Clipse's highly anticipated album, Let God Sort Em Out. Both hosts express their excitement and admiration for the group's enduring impact on the rap scene.

Cole Kushner [00:51]: "Clipse's new album, Let God Sort Em Out, is the most culturally inappropriate guest I could find."

Charles Holmes [00:52]: "I'm doing so well. This is my group. This is my type of music... you're like the heart, the soul."

Clipse Fandom and Evolution

Charles shares his journey as a Clipse superfan, highlighting the transformative period during his college years when Pusha T's collaboration with GOOD Music propelled the duo to new heights. Cole reminisces about his early introduction to Clipse through a friend's influence, emphasizing the group's timeless lyrical and sonic mastery.

Charles Holmes [01:35]: "Every single album, the mixtapes, to everything, I can't get enough."

Cole Kushner [02:29]: "When you listen to them young and then return as they mature, I didn't realize everything they were doing, especially lyrically, sonically."

Strategic Album Rollout

Both hosts commend Clipse's album rollout as one of the most enjoyable and strategically planned in recent memory. They appreciate the tasteful approach, the consistent narrative across interviews, and the effective use of visuals and weekly releases without feeling overdone.

Cole Kushner [04:11]: "The rollout felt very strategic and very effective, making it totally great."

Charles Holmes [05:49]: "Clips were never big sellers... but they've always had a story to tell. Listening to this record deepens that appreciation."

Themes of Grief and Maturation

The album opens with the poignant track "Lost," which delves into themes of grief and loss, marking a mature and introspective start. Both hosts discuss how this sets the tone for the album, intertwining personal narratives with sharp lyricism.

Charles Holmes [15:00]: "This is one of the most powerful, beautiful songs about grief... it kind of threw me off initially."

Cole Kushner [16:53]: "Setting the precedent so boldly... it's impossible not to be moved by it."

Analysis of Key Tracks

"Chains and Whips"

This track stands out for its intricate lyricism and production. Pusha T's verse is dissected for its clever wordplay and deep references, including nods to Jim Jones and the historical implications of rap rivalries.

Charles Holmes [26:50]: "This is a dis. Pusha T's first verse is going at Jim Jones... it's repositioning."

Cole Kushner [27:16]: "Multi-layered internal rhymes... it's so perfect."

John Legend Feature

The inclusion of John Legend introduces a melodic contrast to Clipse's signature rap style. While Cole appreciates the sentiment, both hosts express mixed feelings about how Legend's voice integrates with the album's overall aesthetic.

Charles Holmes [19:57]: "John Legend says, 'I need God to play the lead in my biopic,' which ties perfectly into Clipse’s iconography."

Cole Kushner [20:54]: "I've never been a big fan of John Legend... it's just not for me."

Tyler, The Creator Collaboration

Tyler's feature is lauded for its seamless integration and production quality. Both hosts admire Tyler's ability to emulate and pay homage to Clipse's style, noting Pharrell's influence on the track's production.

Charles Holmes [42:38]: "It's a pinnacle moment for him... a perfect blend."

Cole Kushner [43:13]: "Tyler's production is unique and standout... it's a Clipse cosplay done right."

Pharrell's Production and Hooks

Pharrell Williams' role as the producer is a focal point, with both hosts discussing the strengths and occasional shortcomings of his contributions. They highlight his unique production style and the challenges of integrating his melodic hooks with Clipse's rap verses.

Charles Holmes [50:00]: "Pharrell's singing voice is tough, but his production remains phenomenal."

Cole Kushner [50:25]: "Sometimes the hooks feel unneeded, but Pharrell did an amazing job overall."

Standout Verses and Technical Mastery

Pusha T and Malice showcase their lyrical prowess through meticulously crafted verses filled with internal rhymes, metaphors, and storytelling. The hosts analyze specific lines, appreciating the depth and technical skill embedded in their delivery.

Charles Holmes [52:07]: "Fuck around and get your body traced... It's the perfect couplet."

Cole Kushner [55:00]: "Every line is so well written, has doubles internal rhymes... it's deceptively simple."

Production Challenges and Innovations

The duo discusses how Clipse navigates unique beat structures, such as 6/8 time signatures, demonstrating their adaptability and technical skill. They commend Clipse for maintaining lyrical clarity and flow despite unconventional production choices.

Charles Holmes [63:11]: "Pharrell handed them a 6/8 beat, and they found the groove... it's great."

Cole Kushner [62:03]: "The contrast between the gospel chorus and the verses is comical and over the top, but it works."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrapping up the episode, Cole and Charles reflect on Clipse's enduring legacy and the significance of Let God Sort Em Out in their discography. They celebrate the album's blend of personal storytelling, technical mastery, and strategic artistry, solidifying Clipse's position as masters of their craft.

Charles Holmes [64:46]: "It's surprising that one of the most negative groups is my favorite."

Cole Kushner [66:05]: "We'll have the trailer a week from today... excited for what's coming next."

Additional Promotions

Before concluding, Cole promotes his and Charles's own podcast, Last Long Standing, inviting listeners to explore deep dives into artists' discographies.

Cole Kushner [67:01]: "We have a new season coming... stay tuned for our first video podcast."

Notable Quotes:

• Charles Holmes [26:50]: "What reality TV is, mug wrestling."

• Cole Kushner [55:40]: "So be it... it's so perfect."

• Charles Holmes [57:05]: "Spartan... selling dope is a religion."

• Cole Kushner [56:11]: "The triple rhyme scheme throughout all four bars... it's perfect."

This episode offers an in-depth exploration of Clipse's Let God Sort Em Out, highlighting the group's lyrical depth, production excellence, and strategic artistry. Through insightful discussion and detailed analysis, Cole and Charles provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of why Clipse remains a formidable force in hip-hop.