In my recent efforts to become more familiar with the UK rap scene, I have very happily unearthed a grungy, hardcore group by the name of Strange U. The mysterious duo combines power boosted beats with dare I say Doom-style lyrics and the result is anything but sissy. Often times, I have a hard time understanding UK MC’s lyrics (because of my lack of knowledge of local slang), but Strange U comes through clear and concise. Though still very tastefully UK, their style bridges something more American while maintaining their credibility.
Keeping their faces hidden, Strange U is quickly running a train in the UK, releasing their first EP last year. EP #2040 is seven songs packed with grit and a hard punch to the chest. Lyrically, Strange U takes it all over the place. Some are silly and playful while others are radical and violent, adding to their seemingly ‘End Pussy Rap’ initiative. On the production side, no one can touch them. Captain Murphy-type-beats bang through speakers with heavy distortion, in part due to the “true hip-hop sound” they seem to be reinventing.
Check out EP #2040 above and be on the lookout for their next effort, the Aliens in Suites EP due out in April of next year.
Favorite Tracks: “The Cake Is A Lie”, “Vaporous”, “Beast Moog”, “Strange Ones”
