Bundjalung artist JK-47’s long-awaited sophomore album Revision for Regrowth is one of the most ambitious albums I’ve heard in some time. It’s a concept album, one that plays with genre and while celebrating the power of hip hop as a storytelling medium. Its lyrics are some of the most powerful I’ve heard in a while. It’s a lot to take in, but it’s so good that it encourages repeat listens.
From the opening of “Introspect” you know this is no ordinary hip-hop album. Are they panflutes? And an angelic choir? They’re not a conventional backing for a rapper’s rhymes, but they elevate JK-47’s words in an unexpected way. JK-47 continues pushing the envelope, adding string sections, harps, and other instruments rarely associated with urban music into the mix. Then we hear the sounds of the bush and an Indigenous elder speaking in native language as “ReGrowth” opens, anchoring this music to country. The bold instrumentation of “Avalanche” wouldn’t sound out of place in a modern Broadway musical. The beautiful closer “Zuriel,” an ode to JK-47’s own family, features a gorgeous piano accompaniment that wouldn’t be out of place in a jazz composition.
The songs are introspective, personal and thoughtful ruminations about acknowledging the mistakes of the past, learning from them and moving forward as a better person. They speak of JK-47’s own experiences, but also universal human experiences that resonate so deeply.
“You realise you can’t do things the way you’ve been doing them because it’s not healthy but if you hadn’t lived the experience you wouldn’t have that perspective,” he explained. “When you cut something off you gotta learn how to regrow,”
The making of Revision for Regrowth was a truly collaborative process. JK-47 worked with his long-time creative partner and ARIA-Award winning hip-hop producer Jay Orient on every track. Their ties run deep, with the pair growing up as neighbours on the New South Wales coast. Education took them in different direction, but their love of music has brought them back together. This album also features special appearances from Tasman Keith, Adrian Eagle, Emily Wurrumara, Sachem, ECB Crew, and so many more. Their voices add energy and elevate the songs they’re involved in.
Revision for Regrowth is a triumph. It’s out now. Listen up.
Images used with permission from GYRO PR