Northern Territory rapper BIRDZ just dropped his new record, Train of Thought, one of the most highly anticipated hip-hop records of the year – and now that we’ve heard it, one of the best.
Fresh from signing to Briggs’ label, Bad Apples Music, BIRDZ has gone from an auspicious emerging talent to a fully-fledged, guns-blazing hip-hop powerhouse in the span of a few years.
2013’s Birdz Eye View EP saw the rapper launched into the spotlight, which he continued to own with a string of singles over the past 12 months, including the potent call-to-action Black Lives Matter, the stirring Rise (featuring Jimbalah) and soulful R&B banger, This Side, featuring Serina Pech.
You’ll find all three singles on Train of Thought, alongside nine golden tracks that traverse social and political landscapes with authority and unshakable tenacity, composed with an expansive sonic palette.
But most of all, Train of Thought is a delivery straight form the heart, and its impossible not to become swept up in BIRDZ’s message.
Fresh from dropping his much-anticipated debut record, Train of Thought, we asked BIRDZ to shed a light on some tunes from his favourite Indigenous Australian artists. He did not disappoint.
Nooky – The Greatest ft. Jimblah
Mad energy and killer flows. Can’t wait for my brother to drop new music soon. In the meantime you can catch him killing it on a joint we did called Questions on my album Train Of Thought.
A.B. Original – Strong Arm Robbery
“I said damnnnn homie, you walking on my fuckin lannnnnnd homie!” – Trials. Enough said, really. KINGS
Philly – Yil Lull
Dope rendition of a classic. I’ve been lucky enough to hear some of Phil’s upcoming album and it’s cooking – definitely going to be something special when it drops.
Tasman Keith – Might Snap
The young cuz has a real strong presence already and I feel like he’s only just scratched the surface of what’s to come. I know he has some heaters in the stash – be ready.
Lonely Boys – Hunter
Banger. They recently supported Queens of The Stone Age in Darwin and continue to be regarded as one of the best up and coming live acts by anyone who has a chance to witness them on stage. Got a feeling that they’re about to take over – watch out.
B2M – Don’t Hear Them
B2M are one of my favourite groups in the country and have been for a while now. It’s pretty rare that you find artists that can do R&B pop so well and still have substance and a strong sense of culture shine through. Much love to the Skinnyfish Fam.
Dan Sultan – Kingdom Come
I’m a big fan of the new record ‘Killer’ and this is definitely my joint – BANGER.
Kaylah Truth – Wave
Kaylah’s been holding it down for a minute and really representing for the BNE. I feel like she’s definitely a big part of why the Brisbane scene is thriving at the moment and bringing something new to the table. I’m excited to hear what she’s got coming next.
Emily Wurramurra – Black Smoke
Really digging this joint and the EP. No doubt big things are on the horizon for Emily and I’m looking forward to seeing where she takes it.
Yirrmal – Back To Culture ft Archie Roach
Yirrmal is easily one of my favourite singers right now. Uncle Archie Roach is a legend who, when it comes to storytelling and pouring your soul into a record, continues to be a huge influence on how I share my story and make music.
Listen to BIRDZ’s incredible new record, Train of Thought, below:
