Hip-hop in Australia is about to witness a seismic shift, as venerable comrades Seven Six and Eloquor drop their highly anticipated album, The Stronger the Wind, the Stronger the Tree.
This collaborative masterpiece not only marks a triumphant return to the roots of hip-hop but also signifies the resurrection of a friendship that has weathered the storms of time and industry challenges.
Celebrating his fifteenth anniversary in the Australian hip-hop scene, Melbourne-bred rapper Eloquor has been a vigilant voice addressing the social disconnect experienced by hard-working Australians. From his debut album Move Up to the spiritually ascendant From the Oceans of Karana, Eloquor’s storytelling prowess has made him a prominent figure in the Australian hip-hop scene.
Seven Six and Eloquor
- The Stronger the Wind, the Stronger the Tree is released today
- It marks a triumphant return to their hip hop roots roots
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Birmingham’s hip-hop producer, broadcast and performance DJ and label owner, Seven Six, also known as 7’6, brings a wealth of experience dating back to the 1990s. His involvement in the Australian hip-hop scene includes engineering for Talib Kweli, Briggs, and Pegz to name a few, and has left an indelible mark. 7’6’s debut album Organic Synthesis in 2014 invited listeners to experience hip-hop in a new light, challenging his own conventions and exploring new frontiers in musical expression. The synergy between 7’6 and Eloquor has been forged through time, humility, and numerous supports, tours and shows.
The musical journey of Eloquor and Seven Six began in 2008, with Seven Six playing a pivotal role in helping Eloquor produce his initial albums. The duo embarked on national tours around Australia, gracing iconic venues with their impactful performances. However, a falling out in 2017 tested the strength of their bond. For nearly three years, they didn’t speak until 7’6 reached out to Eloquor, marking the rekindling of their friendship.
This reunion ignited a creative spark, leading to nearly three years of collaborative effort. Seven Six took on the role of producer and recording engineer, while Eloquor contributed his distinctive lyrics and raps, resulting in the creation of the 10-track album, The Stronger the Wind, the Stronger the Tree – a pure hip-hop gem.
Drawing inspiration from the likes of J Dilla, Pharaoh Monch, Hilltop Hoods, Little Brother, and Pegz, The Stronger the Wind, the Stronger the Tree explores themes of resilience, growth, legacy and the enduring power of hip hop. The boom-bap beats and eloquent lyricism harken back to the roots of the genre, creating a timeless and authentic listening experience. With its infectious hooks and thought-provoking lyricism, the first single Fun n Games showcases Eloquor’s unique blend of storytelling and musical prowess.
The track’s dynamic production, helmed by Seven Six (7’6), is characterised by a moody, captivating beat that weaves a spellbinding narrative. 7’6’s production style is piano-heavy, infusing the track with a touch of jazz-infused hip-hop, creating an atmosphere that is both evocative and immersive.
In Brave New World, Seven Sicks & Eloquor delve into themes of transformation and resilience, offering listeners a glimpse into their innermost thoughts and aspirations. From the opening lines, Eloquor’s introspective lyrics paint a vivid picture of personal growth and evolution, as he reflects on his desire for a simpler life amidst the chaos of fame and fortune.
Backed by Seven Sicks’ signature production, characterised by classic hip-hop horn samples and dynamic live drum sounds, Brave New World is a testament to the duo’s collective artistry and vision. With its infectious hooks and thought-provoking lyricism, the track captures the essence of hip-hop’s golden era while pushing the boundaries of contemporary sound.
Longevity is a dynamic track featuring a powerhouse lineup of Dialectrix, N’fa, Bias B, Scotty Hinds, Nelson Dialect, Serocee, and Eloquor. Set against heavy boom-bap drums and a hypnotic flute sample, the song delves into the journey of perseverance and growth in the hip-hop world.
The lyrics reflect on the enduring passion for the craft, evolving from a mere hobby to a deeply ingrained part of the artists’ lives, serving as a form of personal expression and fulfilment. Through introspective verses, they explore the transformation from seeking external validation to finding purpose and meaning within their own narratives. Longevity embodies the essence of hip-hop as a vehicle for self-discovery, resilience, and artistic evolution, delivering a poignant message wrapped in infectious beats and compelling storytelling.
“This album is a testament to the power of friendship and the healing quality of music. Working with Seven Six again felt like coming home, and the result is something we’re both incredibly proud of,” Eloquor says.
“Collaborating with Eloquor and reconnecting after all these years has been a remarkable journey. Our shared commitment to the essence of hip-hop is evident in every track of this album,” Seven Six adds.
Listen to The Stronger the Wind, the Stronger the Tree on all streaming platforms and buy it here.
