GREY Area
Conscious Hip-Hop
On “Boss,” one of the many standouts from the north London rapper’s new album, GREY Area, Little Simz emphatically states “I disregarded all opinions and continued my mission / Unapologetically I be bossin’ it / Getting better with age / Got it back, never lost it.”
Despite being only 25, Simz (born: Simbi Ajikawo) has been one of the most prolific, most talented, and most underrated pioneers of UK rap. She had released 5 EPs by her 21st birthday, garnering praise from such esteemed artists as Kendrick Lamar and Lauryn Hill. She has collaborated with Gorillaz to critical acclaim, and released a concept album, Stillness in Wonderland, in 2016 to similar reactions in the music press...and yet...no one heard it. While the Kendricks and Joey Bada$$es of the conscious-rap scene were seeing widespread mainstream success, Simz was still waiting for hers.
Not content to just wait however, her new album is fiercely confident and forthright. Her stunning production and smart lyricism is a reminder of her bold talent. Punchy bass and brilliant melodies take you on the rollercoaster ride only Simz could design--vulnerable and open. GREY Area is a heady album that demands the listener’s attention. And Simz’ hard work is all worth it to hear looping beats perfectly match the line “I’m Jay-Z on a bad day / Shakespeare on my worst days.” It’s so good that, by the end of the album, you believe her.
How Little Simz isn’t a massive, monolithic presence in the rap industry by now, I have no idea. Her first two albums were well received and had singles that were ridiculously good, yet somehow she hasn’t connected with a worldwide audience. GREY Area is, hopefully, that big pivotal turning point she needs and deserves. This is the kind of project that the Drakes of the world wish they could get their hand on: brave, energetic, reflective, vulnerable, wise; a gift from a truly gifted artist.
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