Thomas Hobbs
Billy Woods is finally having his moment
The prolific cult rapper has punctured the mainstream with his sharp, enigmatic storytelling. Here he discusses new album ‘Maps,’ AI ethics, Cormac McCarthy and more.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
The soul singer who was rediscovered behind bars
When the artist was handed a 31-year sentence, his music was almost forgotten – that was until the likes of Frank Ocean and Kanye West started sampling his tracks. Now that he’s free, he says he’s still fighting to be heard.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
’My music is about facing up to my demons without fear’
To listen to KeiyaA's music is to travel through time, space and psyche: a self-actualising odyssey of sound where anything goes. What lies at the end of the journey is up to you – but with the Chicago-born artist, you couldn’t hope for a guide to get you there.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
Weyes Blood wants to help you let go
As she gears up for the release of her new album, the singer talks spirituality, grieving and existential dread.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
Sharon Van Etten on love, loss and doing the unexpected
The singer-songwriter discusses her intimate new project and the advice she’s picked up across a career as one of rock’s leading voices.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
Conway the Machine: ‘I don’t know if I’ll find peace, but I’m going to try’
Following the release of his latest album 'God Don’t Make Mistakes,' the rapper talks horror villains, police brutality and being unafraid to show his vulnerable side.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
Chris Crack is built differently
The Chicago MC blends provocative, pitch-black humour with a relentless work ethic, driven by a desire to seek out the light in dark situations.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
‘Rap can get classist – I want to be the opposite’
Saba in conversation — Amid the release of his long-awaited third studio album, the rapper talks working through grief and making music for the underdogs.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
‘Black artists need to learn how to empower themselves‘
Mick Jenkins in conversation — Following the recent release of his third studio album, the rapper talks about the influences that have shaped his sound so far and making music that connects with the average listener.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
Cartel Madras are changing the face of rap music
Two of a kind — The Chennai-born, Calgary-raised rap duo discuss finding their feet in an industry dominated by men, and why a salacious sense of humour is at the heart of everything they do.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
Injury Reserve on a future without Groggs
‘He was the heart of the band‘ — Over a year ago, hip hop band Injury Reserve tragically lost one of its three members. Now, amid the release of their new album, the band’s remaining artists, Ritchie With A T and Parker Corey, are facing up to and finding ways to honour the late rapper’s legacy.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs
Drakeo The Ruler’s reign has only just begun
Finally free — After being released from prison last November, the LA-based artist has been busy working on multiple projects and is now gearing up to take his pioneering brand of West Coast rap to even bigger audiences.
Written by: Thomas Hobbs