Photo By Toby Moore
$ebbuku releases Juvenile, a six-track EP that captures the fire, fragility and sharp creativity of an artist that feels unbelievably original as one of the UK’s emerging voices. Conscious hip-hop backbone folding in jazz flourishes, post-punk lines and natural live feel, each track feels considered but loose and allowed to grow in its own space; a patchwork of samples, band takes and raw commentary that lines up social commentary next to a jam session.
Warping bass, boxy drums, and layered brass and sax instrumentals are an ever-shifting bed for $eb’s urgent, conversational verses.
Best described from the man behind the sound, he shares, “Having big ideas and a lush vision of the future is something I always had as a kid. With this EP, myself and the band wanted to show how life has a different plan for all of us, but we’re all still just big kids with even bigger ideas. Juvenile is my insight on being a young person going against the grain. Since the loss of my mother and spending time in different schools and hospitals fighting for my future, I’ve realised that freedom to express is worth shouting about. Sure, that sounds serious, but I’m still the goofy, nerdy dude I’ve always been—I just shell angsty lyrics over breakbeats now!
The writing process was the most fun and authentic we’ve had, especially with all the live recordings. Blending live instrumentation, breaking down vinyl, and rebuilding musical puzzles really defines our sound. Whenever we link up—on stage or on Nik’s (drummer) sofa—it’s like lightning in a bottle. I hope the music carries a message: as a young man taking bigger steps in this weird world, it’s okay to reflect on how you got here and still stay true to yourself. We may all act like Juveniles, but we ain’t kidding around.”
Drawing support from across the tastemaker spectrum, packing out shows, developing his catalogue, and lining up for festival stages, Juvenile is a flag in the ground for the inviting land of $ebbuku.
Listen below:
