INTERVIEW: We Chatted With S.A.B. ALL ABOUT HIS DEBUT EP ‘Black Noise’
S.A.B. is one of the most exciting artists to be emerging out of Meanjin right now and with the release of his highly anticipated debut EP Black Noise late last month the artist is cementing himself as a staple in the cities music scene.
An explosive eight-track EP, the record explores the connection between people of colour, and sheds light on Bla(c)k adolescence, inter-racial relationships and systemic racism. Equally powerful as it is bold, Black Noise see’s S.A.B.’s commanding flow and lyrical prowess on full display as he tells his sonic stories.
The Meanjin based, South African born rapper and producer recorded, mixed and mastered the entirety of the EP with features form carefully-considered Meanjin-based collaborators Sachém and Coco, as well as infectious electric guitar stylings from Tom, sprinkled throughout. All in all, producing an incredibly polished and professional-sounding release.
We caught with S.A.B ahead of his debut to chat all about Black Noise, his key influences, creative process and what he wants listeners to take away from the EP.
Hey S.A.B how’s it going? Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m a rapper and producer, born in Johannesburg, South Africa and based in Meanjin since 2016. I’ve been making my own music since 2018.
For anyone that hasn’t delved into your music, describe it to us in 5 words.
Unapologetic, Bold, Introspective, Relatable and Black
Now you’re due to release your debut EP ‘Black Noise’ on April 27th, how does it feel to be releasing your first full body of work?
It feels dope to be releasing a project as a solo artist. It’s been a valuable journey so far in trusting myself and my judgement, as well as learning to collaborate with others to make the final product come to life.
The record is a powerful release which acts as a vessel for you to share your story through, what do you want listeners to resonate with and take away from the release?
I want people of colour to walk away from this project feeling some sense of connection and solidarity. Although each Bla(c)k experience is nuanced and individual, there are commonalities that are undeniably shared. I hope my White audience can also walk away with some perspective and a sense of urgency for genuine change.
You also produced the entirety of the EP, can you run us through your process?
It usually started with me making a beat and then working a concept around the production, depending on the vibe I picked up. My favourite song has to be ’For The Homies’. My production inspiration ranges from the likes of DaeDae and Boi-1da to Tom Misch and Black Milk.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WL-9zrEKjek?wmode=opaque]
What does your ideal environment look like when you’re getting creative?
Honestly, unlike a lot of artists I know, I love working with the blinds open and the sun shining through. My best work is written between 10am-2pm. For some reason I don’t gel creatively with more moody and dark settings.
What’s your favourite track off the EP and why?
From the drum and percussive production, to the lyrics and message, ‘For The Homies’ is hands down my favourite song. I love how well the acoustic feel of the instrumentation fits with the hard hitting drums.
Who were some of your key influences when refining your sound and creating your debut?
I’ve always been constantly infatuated with the works of Mick Jenkins, A Tribe Called Quest, SABA, JID and Denzel Curry. Whenever I go back got the drawing board I think of these artists first.
Carving your way through Australia’s Hip Hop scene and cementing yourself as an asset in the Meanjin/Brisbane music scene, what has been your favourite moment so far?
I’d have to say my favourite moments have been playing Felons with the Order Sixty6 homies in 2020 and opening for Tasman Keith’s COLOUR LIVE Tour in Meanjin.
Lastly, what can we expect from you moving into 2022!? Do you have any upcoming shows fans can see you at?
Expect more shows. I’m trying to prove myself as a performer this year. Also, keep an eye and ear out for some collaborations I plan on manifesting by the end of the year!
Stream Black Noise now.
Follow S.A.B.
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