In one of my earlier blog posts I poised the question of whether Hip-Hop in Cape Town was dead? My conclusion was that Hip-Hop isn’t dead, it’s just merely not the focus of the people anymore in a popular context. What I failed to realise was that this has offered Hip-Hop artists the chance to explore more of themselves and deliver impactful, authentic work. 

After one listen, that’s what you walk away thinking in Jarry Pitboi and Permi Kwaali’s recent collaboration ‘Amongst The Pigeons’.

This project took me back to when I first listened to Prophets of Da City, just from Jarry’s delivery and how he is more of a poet than just a rapper. His vocals laid over Permi’s Alchemist-esque beats, these two have breathed life into Cape Town’s underground Hip-Hop scene. The project gives the impression that Jarry finally feels like he has found his place in an industry that can at times make you question who you are not just as an artist, but as a person. My favourite tracks off the project include ‘What Do You Need’, ‘Stunt Doubles’, ‘I Will Return’, ‘Dotted Line’ and ‘Eucalyptus’. 

It would be remiss of me to not mention the listening session I had the pleasure of attending. Live performances truly allow the artist to see what impact their music has on people outside of them recording in the studio and us listening on streaming platforms. The community created by these two wonderful artists was a sight to see and shows you what can happen when you stick to your true self while creating, your people will find you eventually.

Being underground, especially in a city like Cape Town, can be a challenge within itself. It requires a self-belief that can sometimes be labelled as delusional, but when you can finally see the fruits of your labour, it makes it all worth it. Hip-Hop is in safe hands.

JUST LISTEN.