Cool Out Sun have continuously pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, bringing a much needed flavour to the Australian music scene.
Their latest album, A Lion Is A Lion, is no exception. Created during an unprecedented time marked by personal upheaval and global pandemic challenges, the album is a testament to resilience and creativity.
The inception of the album coincided with significant life changes for Sensible J, who welcomed a new son just as the pandemic began. With the music industry on hold and his eight-year journey with REMI coming to a close, he saw an opportunity for therapeutic expression.
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Setting an ambitious goal, he challenged himself to produce 50 beats in 50 days, most of which became the backbone of their new project.
In 2021, a fortuitous twist of fate brought N’fa and Sensible J to live mere minutes apart in Frankston. However, soon after, N’fa relocated to Europe. Remarkably, he returned to Melbourne with his family, setting the stage for a creative resurgence in 2023. The duo spent the year reconnecting with live performances and putting their experiences and energy into their music.
The themes of A Lion Is A Lion are deeply personal. Tracks like Sankofa reflect on returning to one’s roots, while Aunty Modu pays tribute to influential female figures in N’fa’s life. Other songs, such as LIONS, delve into the struggles of youth. Yet, not all tracks carry a heavy weight; songs like OHellYeh and Asskin For More (ft. Sampa The Great) celebrate the joy of music and community.
As N’fa puts it, the album serves as “letters to our kids on how to think and enjoy life.” It encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and be respectful to themselves and others. The album’s creation process, while stressful, reflects the duo’s journey of rebuilding and starting anew.
Cool Out Sun’s sound is a vibrant fusion of classic hip-hop with Afrobeat and roots music, enriched by West African influences. Recorded in their indie label’s studio, the album blends live instrumentation with modern production techniques, ensuring a rich listening experience.
Out today, A Lion Is A Lion promises to engage listeners with its catchy hooks and powerful storytelling, solidifying Cool Out Sun’s place at the forefront of the evolving music landscape.
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