We need to talk about Kwame’s soulful sophomore EP Endless Conversations. No doubt you’ve heard the contagious, super-cool single ‘WOW’that recently took over the airwaves. The rest of the EP is just as thrilling, oozing a poetic playfulness that is uniquely Kwame. When Lessons Learned dropped in early 2017, fans were blown away by the young creative’s versatility, continuously blending the boundaries of music. The six-track EP is an honest expression of the artist’s struggle, a collection of conversations about the pressures of life and relationships when balancing work as an artist. Kwame teamed up with Sydney rapper Phil Fresh for the trap track ‘Who Dat’,and the sensual ‘Coffee’ includes the heart-melting vocals of Mel Bailey. Fearlessly rising through the ranks of Australian hip hop, Kwame’s Endless Conversations will ultimately help cement his place as one of the most successful artists of 2018.
Brissie boys Shan Bars and Ronnie Uno make up slick hip hop duo Safety Club. Naming Brockhampton, Amine, Kaytranda and Pharell as some of their musical influences, they boast an impressive list of upbeat tracks guaranteed to make your day a whole lot better. Radiating positive vibes and sunny beats, their latest song ‘Oh La La’is an airy anthem with undeniably catchy lyrics. Fuelled by happiness and laced with light-hearted fun, it’s a feel-good tune and a refreshing take on the hip hop genre. Producer Shan’s personal project is also worth a listen. His Small Group of Friends EP is experimental, eclectic and exciting, with impeccable production value. I am looking forward to seeing what else these two can come up with, as there seems to be a bright future ahead for the duo.
Also from the Sunshine State, alt-rap artist Wolf Henson has dropped trippy visuals for his ambitious new single ‘Shine’.Donning glitter on his eyes, the colourful and ultra-bubbly music video has it all: sharks, wolves, dinosaurs, anime girls and aliens. The song is taken off his upcoming debut mixtape Teens Don’t Cry, an obvious reference to his love of Frank Ocean. Here’s hoping the self-proclaimed ‘homemade superstar’ makes a visit to Melbourne sometime soon.
Indonesian rapper Rich Brian, previously known as Rich Chigga, has announced his debut Australian tour. Rising to fame with his viral hit ‘Dat $tick’, the young creative has faced criticism over controversial lyrics but has grown into a solid hip hop voice, recently being featured on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia List. The LA-based artist will reach our shores in May, ready to perform tracks from his debut album Amen. Indonesian R&B artist NIKI and DJ Don Krez will accompany the young rapper when he jumps on stage at 170 Russell on Tuesday May 22.
