By the time MxBlouse took the small stage of Melville’s favourite hole-in-the-wall haunt the venue was heaving – in part from the Muse Listening Session that had taken place just before, but also from the Jim Beam enthusiasts at the bar clambering to get their hands on a specially designed cocktail for the evening.
Swapping their DJ for a newly-cemented, groove-inducing line-up, it seemed as though MxBlouse had been performing alongside their band since day one, in an effortless sweep of Smoking Kills’ stage from one side to the other.
I look forward to seeing how they grow alongside each other and potentially, how they make music together, given the electronic nature of MxBlouse’s discography.
I’ve always been in closeted awe of Stiff Pap. With an enormous following internationally that only seems to grow with each release, their ability to innovate and create a sound and aesthetic that is entirely their own is enviable.
The last time I saw the duo perform was through a bourbon-induced haze at Oppikoppi (back when we had no idea that 2018’s edition festival would be the last) and in those four years, their set has had a complete overhaul.
Combining elements of underground hip hop, kwaito, and gqom to form an engaging sound that feels far ahead of its time, I am here for every pulsating beat and spitting lyric that Stiff Pap has to offfer.
Check out our portrait images from the event here.
