New takes on old classics are nothing new in rap, however, contemporary rap versions of 19th century Italian stories are pretty niche. But that is Onoe Caponoe all over, so it’s no real surprise that his latest single deals with his own rehash of the tale of Pinocchio, ably assisted by fellow UK favourite, Jehst. The track is accompanied by an animated video, which Onoe also devised, putting him on a creative par with Quelle Chris. Pinocchio is produced by Kehlarj and it’s out now on High Focus.
Tag: animation
Open Mike Eagle: Idaho
A throwback to the album that gave me my first proper introduction to Open Mike Eagle, as he brings us a new video for the track, Idaho. The track is produced by Kenny Segal and it’s lifted from Dark Comedy, while the video was created by BrainPaint. Good stuff all round.
L’Orange & Namir Blade: Imaginary Everything
Another album that we should be looking forward to is the latest from L’Orange, as he joins forces with Namir Blade for Imaginary Everything. Yesterday saw the release of the video for the title track, which incorporates a nice blend of animation and blues guitar, the former being the handiwork of SPELLWRKS. The album is due for release on 7 May via Mello Music, and keep an eye out for my new interview with L’Orange coming soon to Grown Up Rap.
Aesop Rock: Long Legged Larry
Aesop Rock maintains his reign as King of the Rappers who rap about things outside of the usual status quo, with his latest song, which is about a heroic frog. Long Legged Larry is the eponymous star of the show, as we’re treated to a few tales of his exploits, including his rescue of a tightrope walking poodle. The character was inspired by Aesop’s friend and collaborator, Jeremy Fish (no relation). As well as the single, you can also cop a bunch of accompanying merch, including a plush toy version of Larry. More details here.
Run The Jewels: Walking In The Snow
First of all, a happy new year to you guys. I hope you all managed to find some semblance of festive joy, in spite of the global shit-show we are all existing in right now. I thought I’d kick off 2021 with the latest from Run The Jewels, as they get their Pixar on in their new video for Walking In The Snow, in which we find them depicted as kick-ass RTJ action figures manoeuvring their way through a violent dystopian toy town. Pleased to see Bristol’s own Jacknife Films involved with the production again, alongside London-based Black Dog Films. RTJ4 is out now.
Run The Jewels: Yankee and the Brave (ep. 4)
A very enjoyable new video here from Run The Jewels, thanks to a collaboration with Adult Swim, which sees the duo transformed into their animated forms. They are pursued by mechanized Nazi cops, eventually leading to a bloody showdown in a convenience store. The animation was done by Titmouse and the video was directed by Sean Solomon. RTJ4 is out now.
Pitch 92 ft. Kiko Bun, Lord Apex & Jehst: Good With Me
Pitch 92 is one of the collaboration kings, go check his 3rd Culture album for further proof. In the meantime though, get stuck into his latest single, which sees its release today and features yet another hefty guest list. Lord Apex, Jehst and Kiko Bun all bring their A game to the proceedings, with Pitch’s production verging into future funk & soul territory. The track is out now on High Focus and there is a limited 7″ vinyl edition available, which also includes Pitch’s previous single, Suttin’ In The Trunk.
Res One x Mac Lloyd: Find Space
Different vibe on this new one from the Green Brick camp, where Res One and Mac Lloyd are getting ready to release their new EP. Find Space is the lead single from the project and verges successfully into RnB territory, thanks to Mac’s production and Res’s lyrical lilt. Think Mac Miller’s Swimming, but with a Bristolian edge. The Hindsight Hotel EP is due out on ! October. The animated video was made by Josh Richardson (Shed Productions).
Babylon Dead: The Underworld
Ever wondered what it would be like if Aardman ditched the kids TV angle and decided to take up arms in the eternal battle against law enforcement? Well look no further than the latest video from Babylon Dead, where they bring claymation vibes to their usual brand of anti-authoritarian ragga rap. The Underworld is the third single from their sophomore album, Book of the Dead, which is due for release on 4 September. The video was made by Chris Younes.
Iron Wigs: Purple Alien
More from Mello here, as Iron Wigs (Verbal Kent, Sonnyjim, Vic Spencer) release the latest video from their debut album. Purple Alien is taken from Your Birthday’s Been Cancelled, which is available now at all the usual spots.
gingerslim 