Release Date: Jan 22, 2013
Genre(s): Rap, Alternative Rap, Left-Field Hip-Hop
Record label: Anticon
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Buy Tape One [EP] from Amazon
Hip-hop trio Young Fathers have been one of Scottish music’s rather more esoteric best kept secrets since their inception in 2008. Despite occasional flutters with mainstream success, Young Fathers have been frustratingly on the margins of UK hip-hop, a beguiling but infuriatingly scatterbrained presence. After many years of graft the trio of Alloysious Massaquoi, Kayus Bankole, and ‘G’ Hastings may finally be making significant headway after signing to esteemed Californian label Anticon, for whom their first release is Tape One.
The art of storytelling in hip hop is often an overlooked aspect in the modern rendition of the genre. Many contemporary artists are driven toward commercial success and, in the process, tend to avoid socially charged lyrics; opting for a more superficial approach like a peacock spreading its feathers for intimidation. Of course there are exceptions to the rule (Atmosphere, The Roots and Jurassic 5 immediately come to mind).
Edinburgh-based rap trio impresses with this potential-rich collection. Mike Diver 2013 Multicultural Edinburgh trio Young Fathers have, with this collection, established themselves as a standout act amongst 2013’s domestic crop of hip hop. Tape One first emerged as a free download in 2011, but now, with Anticon’s backing, it’s set to reach a wider audience.
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