Norwich-based rapper and producer $ebbuku, the brainchild of Sebastian Bates, returns with the upbeat and playful new single ‘Jackanory’ . Written alongside producer ALINA, the single comes hot off the heels of his ‘Affray’ EP, showcasing a track rooted in inventive production and live instrumentation.
With detuned pianos, saxophones, swinging beats and bass, and playful scratching and samples ‘Jackanory’ is a hook laden track that surfs the elements of pop and hip hop. With bipolar emotions $ebbuku shifts between melodic choruses and his jittery introspective bars. With elements of post punk, pop and hip hop it’s a refreshing brew from an artist plugged into his own artistry.
Speaking about the track, Seb explains: “Jackanory is quite simply my take on allowing yourself to let go of your past and not let the stories of your past define you. I speak a lot about my time living in Norwich, wanting to take my craft to the next level but in the process damaging myself for success. It’s almost like I’m talking to myself, questioning if I’m ready to take the steps I need to grow as a young man whilst maintaining my career. Although the song has deep undertones, I also tried to keep my lighthearted attitude in the track, making jokes about my experiences and tales of madness with the band. In the end the track is all about growth and takes a new direction for my music.
Myself and Alina recorded the track at my home, playing and programming the instruments live. We took the approach of re-sampling all our own live recordings and record scratches which lead to a gripping hook of nostalgia in production and emotion. It was great to go down a more jazzy route compared to the heavy angst of my previous work, looking at modern Hip/Hop at a new angle.”
