For the second time in recent weeks we were delighted to learn that another of our releases had been picked by online store Bandcamp to feature on their front page’s “New and Notable” spotlight section.

“Urban Testimony” by Brooklyn rapper Justo the MC and Edinburgh lo fi hip hop producer Brelstaff is an exceptional piece of work. Lyrically, the narrative reads like a book telling the story of a pivotal time in Justo’s life before during and after his curtailed and turbulent attendance at Clark Atlanta University some years ago.

The underlying themes of potential opportunities presented by the escape route of academia being missed as a conflicted mind strayed on the path of hedonism is a brutally honest account of events as they unfolded. However, the story ends on a more optimistic note of survival and progression with lessons learned.

The accompanying soundtrack by Brelstaff perfectly captures each mood perfectly. The blend of lo fi hip hop beats, jazz fusion and soul acts almost like a film score, the instrumental versions of several having been broadcast by BBC Radio 1’s ‘Focus Beats’ programme earlier in the year.

Both the vocal version of the album and instrumental version are available on Bandcamp

You can learn more about Justo and Brelstaff in their specially designated Artist Page on this website.

TEAM NDR

We are extremely proud to announce the release today of the phenomenal new album “Panacea” by London’s rapper & producer duo Phoenix da Icefire and Husky Brown.

A truly astounding and ground breaking piece of work which breaks from formulaic convention, Husky’s fresh and dynamic fusion of hip hop, electronica, dub, bass, r&b and soul provides the soundtrack for a narrative addressing many of today’s most pressing issues.

Triple Darkness member Phoenix has long been regarded as one of the finest lyricists to emerge from the UK, and throughout the album he sets his existential sights on the environment, mental health, knife crime, racism, well being and inner city life, all delivered with his trademark dexterous rhymes and creative wordplay.

Facing the challenges head on, the engaging commentary still retains a message of hope at its core, related through metaphorical concepts as abstract as they are grounded in reality.

A multidimensional, unique, entertaining and highly relevant album which pushes boundaries for the genre and will stand the test of time for years to come. Literally exceptional.

Distributed by Ingrooves / Universal, available to download and stream from Apple, Amazon and Tidal Also available to stream on Spotify & Soundcloud

Connect with Phoenix da Icefire & Husky Brown on Instagram @PhoenixDaIcefire @HuskyBrown.Official and on Twitter @PhoenixDaFire @HuskyBrown

All media inquiries regarding the album, including requests to interview Phoenix da Icefire and Husky Brown, should be sent to our in house promotional division UrbanElite PR. Their contact details are available HERE

Our continued appreciation to everyone for their support, especially during these difficult times. Stay safe.

TEAM NDR