From the hardcore rap legends of the late ‘80s to the gangsta rap icons of the early ’90s, the Golden Age Of Hip Hop brought us some of the most influential rappers in the genre’s history. Characterised by remarkable innovation, the era saw the rise of hip hop’s greatest artists, with Run D.M.C, Public Enemy and A Tribe Called Quest to name a few.
Despite recent attention on the emergence of new wave rap in Australia, many hip hop fans consider the Golden Age to be the greatest rap era of all time. Drawing inspiration from the lyrical masters of the time, Melbourne maestro Krown places his own contemporary spin on the iconic period’s style with his debut EP Wake Em Up. Reminiscent of old-school East Coast hip hop, his sound takes notes from KRS-One, Rakim and the early works of a young Jay-Z. The sheer creativity and complexity of Krown’s lyrics will leave you in awe, bringing back the realness of rap with raw energy and sincere motivation.
The EP begins with Rain N Pain, an emotional tale of the trials of war-torn victims and the difficulties that spawn from growing up in a bad environment. Clever rhymes are placed over skeletal beats and boom-bap drums, forcing you to pay attention to Krown’s sharp lyricism. From Afar is an honest open letter from Krown that calls success to come closer and Don’t Talk is a gritty yet poetic piece about the weakness in silence and power of voice. ‘Don’t talk, just walk’ is echoed in the hook, emphasizing the importance of putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.
Wake Em Up is about making things happen and keeping it real. With his immaculate raps and free-flowing delivery, Krown talks about his determination, focus and the need to work hard to achieve your dreams. The song Military Mind is best described as Krown’s state of mind and his approach to the rap game, keeping ahead of time and staying afloat. Had A Talk is the EP’s final track – an intense conversation with a friend, encouraging them to change their life and become a better person. Krown is on a quest to conquer the rap game, while paying tribute to the kings of hip hop. This local kid hasn’t forgotten the genre’s greatest artists, and is on the path to becoming one.
As summer draws closer, there are plenty of events to mark on your calendar. Marksman Lloyd will be dropping his new EP Portals on Friday September 1, and he’ll be heading across the country to celebrate. Catch the Portals Tour at The Penny Black on Saturday September 23, with special guests François and Boy Graduate.
Illy, Thundamentals, Spit Sydnicate and Birdz will perform at A Weekend In The Gardens. The three-day concert takes place in Melbourne’s iconic Royal Botanic Garden beginning Friday 17 November. Tickets are on sale now via the Festival’s website, so get in quick.
Finally, don’t forget about St Jerome’s Laneway Festival in January next year. Anderson .Paak is headlining the festival and the lineup includes Australian acts Sampa the Great, Baro and hip hop duo A.B Original. Laneway Presents have also announced that Chicago rapper Noname will head to Australia for the first time this summer, performing at 170 Russell on Sunday 10 December.
