SQUAD: the Noble Nation fam are more proof that Melbourne’s sound is just as diverse as it’s people.
There’s a real interesting sound coming out of Melbourne rn, a reinvigoration of lyrically-driven tracks, languid yet addictive flow, and pristine production that blends radio-friendliness and old-school-ish drums/high-hats. The RAW DIVERCITY squad (Baro, Nasty Mars, Marcus, Charlie Threads etc.) are at the forefront of the attempt to make Melbourne as enduring a rap scene as Toronto, but who says a city can only have one style that defines it?
Noble Nation is a Melbourne-based squad that’s been around for a lil bit, but they’ve only recently knuckled down and started to release dope tracks. They collectively identify with a slower-paced, more old-school vibe – one that I can definitely fuck with. They take rap back to the basics – less focus on blaring horns and trap synths and more on mellow, hypnotic tracks that are perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon. Here’s my pick of 4 tracks from Noble Nation that should make your tram rides that much more bearable:
Manny Mula – Sonia’s Interlude
Manny Mula’s a name that should be familiar to TG fans – we had a lotta time for his collab track “Thursday” – and he’s back with a new soul-wrenching track that should have you squeezing out those Drizzy tears. “Sonia’s Interlude” is written for the lovers out there… Those that toss a rock at bae’s window to sneak her out after dark, and who appreciate a slow dance under the spotlight.
N.Vibes x Miiic Porter – Birdseye
All this duo has to say about this track is: “Unorthodox but it was needed”. Enough said. “Birdseye” is the ultimate track for a lazy day in the sun. Sensual backing vocalist (shades of Maia here….), check. Crystal-clear production, check. Raps about hopes and dreams, check. N.Vibes and Miiic Porter are onto a winner here… If this is them fucking around and having fun, I’m def keen for them to get more studio time and continue to impress.
Yinn Yann – Regular
Judging from the fact that he’s only released one solo track so far, Yinn Yann’s the new kid on the block in Noble Nation (I think so anyway…), but he’s already the one I’m keeping an eye on the most. I swear that “Regular” reminds me of a track by an established, American rapper… or maybe the fact that I’ve had it on repeat the last day or so means it’s wormed its way into my subconscious. Either way, I’ll be checking his SC for more real soon.
Miiic Porter – Static
It’s real short at just under two minutes and only really has one verse, but “Static” is probably my fav track that’s come out of Noble Nation so far… 10/10 blend of proflogik’s stuttering, wispy left-field production and Miic Porter’s undeniably hypnotic lyricism. Not gonna lie, the beat low-key steals the show for me, but Miic Porter deserves props for thinking outside the box and seeking out the room for experimentation that future beats have to offer.
Posted by SRAWAN V
