Album Review: Knucks - London Class
By April Izzard (@april.izzxrd)
North-West London rapper-producer, Knucks has released his latest 8 song (and 4 skits) EP ‘London Class. It is a confident development from his upbeat - even flirtatious - first EP NRG 105. The production on this EP is forward-thinking and polished with signature jazz samples that create a cinematic quality. This is made ever more prominent by the skits that act as a palate cleanser between tracks.
On this EP, Knucks also demonstrates that he’s able to work with a real variety of artists, with features from UK cult favourites Sam Wise, Loyle Carner and kadiata, as well as Venna and KXYZ.
Knuck’s self-belief and brutally honest attitude seep into each song he creates. Thames, the EP’s opening song and latest single, is a perfect example of this. “If my words got you hurt, then they meant to. If I ever did you dirty, then I meant to.” He raps openly and honestly, with unwavering confidence that shows he’s prepared to do whatever it takes to progress.
Fxcked Up, the first single from this EP featuring Sam Wise is kind of conversational and tells the story of growing up in his ends in North London. The song’s lyricism is a real ode to London slang, it exaggerates the unique attitude and confidence formed by the people who grow up in London.
It’s definitely clear which tracks will garner the most popularity, Standout featuring Loyle Carner is one. Rightly so; it’s a great track, especially for fans of Carner. A nostalgic 90s hip-hop inspired tune thanks to its back-and-forth style and playful wordplay, and in some ways it’s similar to Fxcked Up. But, personally, my intrigue peaked when Innit announced itself in my headphones. It gives the impression that Knucks is trying to push his sound and he hasn’t reached his full potential just yet. The warbling bass and techy drumbeat give an underground rave feel to the production, which reminds me of breakbeat tunes. Against the rest of the EP, it stands out as one of the more experimental tracks. And, once again, solidifies the fact that Knucks doesn’t want to be defined by just one subgenre.
Knucks proves himself once more as one of London’s slickest artists and London Class serves as a great example of an artist willing to push himself sonically. His exceptionally confident delivery and en-pointe wordplay complement the production, which effortlessly weaves between love for nostalgia, hip-hop and grime. After this release, it’s clear Knucks has found his niche and wants to continue to hone it. Honestly, I’m all ears.