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PREMIERE: Able8, “Leader” (ft. Elf Tranzporter & Syreneyiscreamy)

I haven’t been able to shut up about the quality of Australian hip-hop right now – and it’s not the big names I’m talking about, but the upcoming artists who are making serious waves. Today I’m really excited to premiere the new track from Melbourne’s own Able8, Leader featuring Elf Tranzporter and Syreneyiscreamy.

Not only does this track feature three excellent artist names, but sublime production – it’s sonically intriguing and utterly seductive. Elf Tranzporter’s tone is low and commanding, while the lyrical structure, particularly the in-verse rhymes puncturing the hazy rhythm, are equal parts clever and cool. The vocal vocal hook is a gorgeous embellishment above the deep, bubbly, synths; I’m really digging this this blend of hip-hop with deep, bassy electronica – it’s such an interesting, not to mention unique sound.

There’s so much going on in this track; Each time I listen, I discover something new, from additional synth layers to scratch effects, to hidden wordplay and more.

Able8 has already shared the stage with some of the biggest names in electronic music, including Luke Vibert, Bonobo, Machinedrum and Hudson Mohawke. If he keeps producing hip-hop this good, I have absolutely no doubt we’ll be hearing from him a lot more often across the rest of 2016 and beyond.

Leader is set to feature on Able8’s upcoming EP Program.02, due out June 2, 2016. It’s the second track available ahead of the EP, following on from recently-released Think Fast ft. Manix. Check out the artwork below.

If you’re in Melbourne, head down to the EP launch at Section 8, also on June 2 – details here.

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Artwork: Ryan Boserio

Image: Duncographic