I planned to use the last couple of weeks before many people returned to work catching up on all the music I hadn’t gotten to last year. Instead I found myself stuck on Sonz of Serpent’s brilliant debut album …34 Minutes on the Northside. It might have derailed my plans, but I couldn’t be happier about it.
My husband, who grew up on America’s East Coast, paused to stop at my office door and listen to the music blasting from my speakers. After nodding his head in agreement, he asked me who the band was. I told him they were a new trio from Adelaide and he was shocked, commenting that they sounded like one of the classic hip hop acts he grew up listening to. There’s certainly a throwback to the acts of the ’80s and ’90s. The sound of brass instruments and piano tones adds a hint of soul to these tunes which feels so familiar. However, these guys have a uniquely Australian voice that separates them from the US pioneers that brought hip hop to the masses decades ago. Beyond that, they’re Indigenous voices, strong voices that don’t get enough opportunities at the mic.
The name Sonz of Serpent refers to the Rainbow Serpent, the water spirit who brings rain, healing, fertility, and new life. Think of these guys as a glass of water for minds thirsting for guidance and knowledge.
“We wish to speak to those absent from leadership and purpose,” Sonz of Serpent explains. “Acting as a current, moving some in the right direction through well thought out rhymes, witty metaphors, cool flows, range of content and energy.”
There are some powerful songs here. “CHECKING IN” and “TRUTH” really pack a lyrical punch. However, this album is far from preachy. I love the swag of “NOT MANY.” “LIFE” and “ALRIGHT” find silver linings among the struggle. This album is all about light and shade, sharing knowledge without lecturing so we keep our ears open, right to the end.
…34 Minutes on the Northside is out now.
Images used with permission from Habit Music Co.