Karol Conka - Boa Noite
In the past nine months, the Brazilian rapper, Karol Conka, has made noticeable movements in the underground hip hop scene. This new track, produced by Nave, is infused with heat and vibrancy that is reminiscent of Diplo back when he was throwing Hollertronix nights in Philly. It is baile funk at it's best - music that is an authentic externalisation of culture within Brazilian communities. This is the good stuff.
Conka shows, unlike other contemporary female MCs like Angel Haze or Azealia Banks, that one needn't court controversy to command respect. The musical artistry here is enough.
The driving rhythms and careful sampling (right to the lit cigarette at the end of the track) give a feeling of presence and location that is so difficult to imitate within a stereo field. The skilfully manipulated sample that plays throughout the track provides the perfect counterpoint to Karol's insistent flow and skilled oration. It grants an undeniable authenticity that speaks of an artist confident in their skills and at the precipice of real self-actualisation as a performer.
Almost ten years after 17-year-old Conka took to her school stage to sample her new sound, we have been invited into her fully grown brand of Brazilian Pop Music. Influenced by artists such as Lauryn Hill, Boa Noite is a mature Conka. It's execution shows an artist ready to lead the new posse of female rappers.
File next to: MIA, Diplo, Rye Rye
The details: Released 14th October; Mr Bongo Records; @karolconka
