Maryland Mansions (2003)

If indie rap is the new punk, it makes perfect sense that MCs like Slug, Sage Francis, and Cex are teaming up with smaller rock labels. The latter is a genially intense freak known for performing in tightie-whities and leading conga lines through the audience, and his latest LP fits the Jade Tree avant-emo aesthetic to a baby tee. It's an exercise in romantic self-loathing -- complete with anorexia and existential dread -- that shuffles between distorted beats, art-metal grind, and somber acoustic guitar, like a hip-hop fan trying to make a Nine Inch Nails record in his parents' basement. SELLING OUT ''The Strong Suit'' is the best rap song ever about being a traveling salesman; Arthur Miller would be proud.