A solemn start yet steadily surrounded by moreish bars, Earth 2 released on the 25th of November by Brbko (‘pronounced Brak’), restates the artist’s pre-eminent ability to leave listeners astounded by Brbko’s unorthodox sounds and words.

Natively Mancunian, now London-based DJ, producer, rapper and NTS radio presenter of BRAKFM, Brbko fills our ears loud with latest single, Earth 2. Spelling themes of personal anguish, love and conflict. The symbology of the single I believe, does not necessarily lie in the lyrics, the meditative melody seems to behave as the calm before the storm, an abnormal tranquillity. As serenity declines, this melody contrasts with the province of his voice, spitting experiences and perchance his truth to it.

Thenceforth the drop, a stark contrast to the peace, where his voice becomes alien clashing with harsh bass. “Just keep your distance” ending vocal, then smoothly transitions into piano as the bass fades, returning to the ‘calm before the storm’.

This demonstrates a narrative.

Earth 2, another self-produced track succeeding his debut album, 2PK @;ڿڰۣ— , which was circulated through FRANCHISE. I find 2PK @;ڿڰۣ— sets the tone of Brbko; consistently mesmerising yet incalculable to how he will experiment with sound. Whether this be blending influences of grime, lo-fi or down-tempos followed by heavy bass, :-$ exemplifies this. Featuring Ryoko Virgil, the vividity reigns on track 2 of the album and is matched in imagery in Ben Wescott directed music video.

With such an array of literature, it will be unpredictable yet still exciting to see what Brbko brings out next…