After previewing the tantalising “No Slaves” featuring the multi-talented Anderson .Paak, it’s time to reel in anticipation for the arrival of the debut EP this coming Friday (August 5) by the allusive yet effervescent Knox Brown entitled Searching.
Brown has been on the radar of many a dedicated Hip Hop head for a while, his collaborative work with JAY Z, Beyoncé and Mary J. Blige bringing him a whole new level of interest after releasing a steady stream of tracks on Soundcloud over the last couple of years.
This debut mixtape has been in the making for a while and its testament to the undeniable ability and vision of the Birmingham youngster to not be rushed into making something for the craving masses. This project has been bore with love and patience, with a plethora of influences stretching from Jazz, Dub, Soul, Gospel and even Grime. The second single to be taken off the EP, which is also the title track of the EP, debuted earlier this week to strong acclaim across all platforms.
Having moved from Jamaica to the UK at the vulnerable age of 12, Brown compiled his origins and obsession with music into making beats and rhymes full of unconventionality and innovation. This is highly apparent on Searching, broke down into six solid tracks each prophesizing a different story and vibe onto the listener.
From the brass infused opener of “Dear Mr Brown,” packed full of gracious production technique to the double-part title track that washes over the ears like a cool ocean breeze complimented by Brown’s easing melodic vocals. Whilst it’s easy to get carried away, it can’t be understated that the whole flavour of this EP has garnishes of Kendrick’s To Pimp A Butterfly, strong socio-political messages adorned with a cross section of celebrated Black music.
This debut is something to be extremely proud of and one that will surely see Brown’s star rise to unquestionable heights. The UK finally has something to offer in the form of conscious, meaningful, jazz-infused Hip Hop and whilst it probably won’t get the airplay it deserves, it certainly has set the path for a prosperous future for the West-Midlander. Let’s just hope he fulfills it.
