Look, it's fair to say that for a lot of us Ireland and hip-hop aren't particularly a combination we often associate with one another. But, with acts like HARE SQUEAD running about, it'd be wise for you to jump on that quicksmart - much like legend GOLDLINK has.
Hare Squead dropped their debut EP Supernormal in December last year, and the shining jewel of that stunning record was 'Herside Story.' It's a smooth, summery bop that is contrasted beautifully with the deep, bassy flow and a glistening, barely-there melody that the Irish trio spit over with calculated rhymes. The force and power that is injected in the verses is backed surprisingly well with soothing, piano-driven production that allows for a gentle sway or vigorous moshing - a truly beautiful combo seldom achieved by even the biggest players in hip hop.
But, one of the most exciting hip-hop artists around - GoldLink - has tried his hand and spinning this gem into something even more beautiful and, to no one's surprise, he's succeeded. On the rapper's latest LP, At What Cost, GoldLink gives a subtle yet effective rework to Hare Squead's gem. He inserts his rolling, stoic flow over the refreshed melody that somehow sounds like all GoldLink's own but not without detracting from the magic the original track offered.
Collaborations are nothing new in hip-hop; in fact some could say it is part of the very framework of the ever-expanding genre. But this trans-Atlantic collab between one of America's finest and one of Ireland's up-and-comers is truly something to behold. It's powerful yet completely understated, and is going to take you straight to the dancefloor.
Words by JACKSON LANGFORD
SEE ALSO
GO ON A SUMMER TRIP WITH HARE SQUEAD IN 'HERSIDE STORY'
