Briggs is a unique figure in the Australian rap scene; he comes correct, has talent, has vision and is an extremely affable artist. The man mountain is back to salute his cultural heritage, praise family and bear witness to all things Shep’. A reflective account of where he’s been, where he’s at and what he stands for; this follow up to 2010’s magnificent debut, The Blacklist, is Adam Briggs all grown up.
At its heart, Sheplife is thoughtful and contemplative, yet pulling no punches is the big beat defiance of opener Let It Be Known. “Fuck ‘em all if they thought they could tame me,” roars Briggs with urgency, aggression and pride.
Get Up (with Hau) bounces playfully with a tight bass line and leads into a classically old school joint, Rather Be Dead. Hips will shake here as Briggs flows effortlessly to reference Kobe, Koni and pay homage to Biggie Smalls’ Hypnotize. It’s sample heavy, rich with guitar licks and exudes a floor-filling, infectious chorus. Title-track, Sheplife, is unlikely to be adopted by local council, Briggs’ telling it how it is in his hometown (more drive-thru than drive-by).
As an album, Sheplife represents identity. Purgatory (Let It Go), Let You Down, My People and The Hunt see Briggs find strength in his indigenous heritage; the latter enabling a meaningful collaboration with renowned artist Gurrumul. Each track is saturated with delicate keys and cinematic strings. Family is another key feature; Briggs honouring the creation of life with Bigger Picture (with Sietta) and the tragic loss of life in Late Night Calls.
In his own words, Briggs has put his “tribe on his arms and Shep’ on the map.” He’s representing the most significant turning points and people in his life, and he’s done it with style. Always was. Always will be. Briggs.
BY JOHN DONALDSON
Best Track: Rather Be Dead
If You Like These, You’ll Love This: GOLDEN ERA RECORDS, KRS-ONE, KOOL KEITH, KEV CARMODY
In A Word: Powerful
