Hailing from the North West province, the home of some of South Africa’s most influential hip-hop artists, Leroi Mentia’s debut album, Brenda’s Very Own, follows the release of numerous songs and EPs dating back to 2021.
His debut full-length project leans heavily on the influence of some of hip-hop’s biggest names, as his style of rap borrows from a style perfected and improved by Kendrick Lamar, with an essence of Common. There are moments when the rapper seems to get lost in his delivery, but he more often than not recovers, managing to shine on songs like “Baby Jake & Valdano” and “Hurtz in Orbits”, while “Shades outside Brits” brilliantly weaves in aspects of jazz.
Brenda’s Very Own is primarily themed around paying homage to his mother and is used as a canvas for self-expression in which he explores life, love and light. It’s an album which displays Leroi Mentia’s potential, through a rich variety of influences and an ability to deliver well. A little exploration in finding his own voice will allow his fundamental talent to soar.
Feature pic supplied by artist
