Freshly signed to UK-based label Cotch International, Stiff Pap (Ayema Probllem and Jakinda) continue to bend styles and break boundaries on “TUFF TIME$,” a stellar tribute to the trials and tribulations of chasing the dream in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The project is masterfully curated and combines elements of underground hip hop, kwaito, and gqom to form a uniquely infectious sound that feels far ahead of its time.
Stiff Pap have formed a distinct bond capable of seemingly anything, evident in this new project that’s accompanied by a superb short-film directed by Meghan Daniels.
The album holds two spectacular features in Nkosi Zithulele, from the exceptional BCUC, and New York-based rapper, Wiki. The former found on the extraordinarily psychedelic opening track, “Riders on the Storm”, before the latter brings his exquisite style and impeccable bars on the title track, “TUFF TIME$”.
The duo touch on post-apartheid black consciousness and the continuous effort to free themselves from the lingering chains of the old South Africa on “Caster Semenya” before slowing it down on the alluring and atmospheric “I See You”.
The introspective “Berlin Dungeon (Validation)” has the artists dreaming of bigger things and reflecting on the financial struggle of being young black artists. “I don’t need your validation bitch, yeah I know who I am” – a casual reminder that they do not seek your approval; you either get it or you don’t.
The JPEGMAFIA-esque “Don’t Stop, Landela”, incredibly hard-hitting “SASSA”, and gloriously rhythmic “Mnandi Times” will have you have you desperate to see a live show to witness the remarkable energy Stiff Pap carry.
“Broke Boy Theory” is an all-round outstanding piece of experimental new wave Hip-Hop with flawlessly controlled vocals that might leave you levitating out of your seat.
“Top Gun” is a magnificent closing track. It is an anthem. It epitomises what Stiff Pap are: raw, authentic, and completely in a lane of their own.
