Del tha Funkee Homosapien, Dan the Automator, and Kid Koala return 13 long years after the release of their first album Deltron 3030 with one hell of a weird story.

Imagine the hip-hop equivalent of a rock opera, set a thousand years in the future, starring the alter egos of two of the most enigmatic characters ever to handle turntables and mics, as they wade through the post-apocalyptic ruins of a corporate-controlled universe.  This, alongside a cast of featured artists as comically bizarre as it is extensive. Appearances range from Gorillaz frontman Damon Albarn, to actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt, to professional chef David Cheng.  This is Deltron 3030: Event II.

The 16-song tracklist exemplifies the steadiness of Del’s rhythmic flow. Although his rhymes lack the lyrical deftness and complexity found in many of his previous works, it’s only to be expected—Event II  is a narrative first and album second.

What really stands out is the production by Dan the Automator, characterized by deeply tolling bells, a dynamic mix of classical instrumentals, hard-hitting drums, and appropriately futuristic-sounding synths.  Track 9, “Talent Supersedes (ft. Black Rob)” is a perfect example of this type of sound, incorporating common elements throughout the album in one track.

Featured artists’ performances are underwhelming at times, though among them are a few standout tracks—look for Mary Elizabeth Winstead of Scott Pilgrim fame on “Look Across the Sky,” and “What is this Loneliness” featuring Damon Albarn and Casual.  The intermittent skits that punctuate the album also serve to keep things interesting while making for some good laughs.

The jury is still out on whether Event II has eclipsed its predecessor as an album, but it has undoubtedly done so as a project.  In combining top-notch storytelling, a distinguished lineup of featured artists, and impeccable delivery, Deltron 3030: Event II makes for a modern day musical epic you’ll be playing on repeat for the foreseeable future.