The new album from Mercury Prize winner Speech Debelle is out now (21 Feb in NA).
Freedom Of Speech sees her with a new look and a new direction, turning from introspection to face and engage with the world around her. Still brutally honest, yet a more mature and exciting record with lyrics to match, the new sound was shaped in collaboration with Kwes.
The album is a sonic declaration of independent control over rhyme and reason. Speech’s lyrics pack a powerful punch, punctuated with moments of arch perception and even hilarity. Her playfulness teamed with bouts of fiery attitude is a celebration of female power and identity, and as a result the album is self-referential without sinking into contrived introspection. Honest, uncompromising and ambitious, the unabashed lyrics come from a woman who sounds like she’s emerged from the emotional cocoon of her first album and come out fighting, more powerful than ever.
Freedom Of Speech is released out now (EU) / 21 Feb (NA) on 2LP, CD and download, buy at the Ninjashop and iTunes.
The single I'm With It follows on 20 Feb, featuring remixes from Lapalux, Cooly G and more. Pre-order at iTunes, and watch the new video for the single below.
Speech Debelle on the Guardian Podcast
Friday 10 Feb
Ahead of Freedom Of Speech's release on Monday (21 Feb in NA), Speech Debelle spoke to the Guardian Podcast about the influences behind the record, social commentary and more, head here to listen.
Freedom Of Speech is released 13 Feb (EU) / 21 Feb (NA) on 2LP, CD and download, order now at the Ninjashop and iTunes.
The single I'm With It follows on 20 Feb, featuring remixes from Lapalux, Cooly G and more. Pre-order at iTunes, and watch the new video for the single below.
Roots Manuva - Online Merch Store Now Open
Friday 10 Feb
Thanks to everyone who came out for Roots Manuva's UK tour! Just in case you forgot your pounds on the night of the gigs, the man himself now has an online merch store for all your Manuva garment needs.
Head over to backstreet-merch.com to pick up a new t-shirt, hoodie or lighter/bottle opener combo now, just in time for Valentine's...perhaps.
4everevolution is out now on 2LP, CD and download at the Ninjashop and iTunes.
Speech Debelle - Live for The Fly Sessions
Thursday 09 Feb
Speech Debelle recorded a live session for The Fly magazine recently, performing "Studio Backpack Rap", "Live For The Message" and upcoming single "I'm With It" backed by acoustic guitar and double bass - watch the session here.
Freedom Of Speech is released 13 Feb (EU) / 21 Feb (NA) on 2LP, CD and download - pre-order now at the Ninjashop and iTunes.
