REASONS TO COME EARLY: slowthai opening for Brockhampton at The Anthem on November 25th
Tyron Kaymone Frampton, better know as slowthai, is a 24 year old rapper making waves in the U.K.’s grime scene by expressing his political views on his debut album “Nothing Great about Britain” and its accompanying visuals as well as by sharing co-signs with artists such as Denzel Curry, Flume, and Brockhampton.
slowthai is pushing the envelope in the U.K.’s growing alternative rap scene with his raw talent and passion by rapping about love, drug culture, and Brexit. Some of his most notable songs include “Doorman,” “Inglorious,” and “Ladies.” Each of these songs reflect on experiences in his life and hone in on a wide array of lyrical content as well as varied musical production. “Doorman” discusses an alcohol-fueled night out and is produced by Mura Masa, who tends to bring electronic and dance vibes to tracks. The song is tough, centered around intense guitars and warped instrumentals. slowthai’s biggest hit to date features U.K. hip hop royalty Skepta and has a similar vibe to “Doorman,” although it is more stripped down and features a more traditional rap flow. “Inglorious” discusses obstacles in his life and the people who have been against him since the beginning.
On the other hand, “Ladies” is a softer song whose memorable chorus finds Frampton rapping, “This one's for the ladies, ‘coz they have our babies / And they drive us crazy, but they made us men.” This song relies on similar warped sounds and features quiet xylophones against an electric beat. The music video for “Ladies” features fully-dressed women against a naked slowthai, providing an intriguing juxtaposition that contrasts with the objectification of female bodies found in many music videos.
Ultimately, slowthai brings an astounding amount of energy to his live performances. His antics include everything from stripping down to his boxers to inciting chaotic mosh pits. Last spring, I was lucky enough to see slowthai headline at a boxing gym in London. He came on stage already shirtless, commanded the crowd to move to one side of the venue to ensure a more intense mosh pit, and brought his little sister on stage for her fourth birthday. slowthai’s stick-and-poke tattoos stuck out as well as his vibrant Northampton accent. slowthai aims to connect fully with his audience and is, typically, dripping in sweat by the time his set is finished. Finally, slowthai is a captivating performer who is unique in everything he does — certainly one you won't want to miss.
slowthai is finally making his D.C. debut on November 25th, opening for Brockhampton at The Anthem. Grab your tickets here!
— Elly Murray-Mendelson