Wheres Ice Kid At!?
Ice Kid returns after a prolonged sabbatical from the music scene with his EP 11. This EP is his second official release since his debut the Jekyll Hyde EP. His absence is something he addresses in his interview with the MOBOs post his unexpected Red Bull Culture Clash appearance. Ice Kid made it clear in this interview he didn’t really enjoy all the attention which came with the talent at a young age.
“I never really felt comfortable being the centre of attention, it just ain’t my thing..”
Now the introduction is out the way, time to focus on the review of this new project.
The EP opens up with the fiery trap infused A.T.M which doesn’t fit into the typical “Grime” sound. The lines between UK urban genres have really become one, which is in part due to cross-collaborations. Meaning it’s not possible to put artists into genre boxes anymore. Ice Kid gives a quick reminder to doubters as well as providing some catchiness for the fans on the hook.
One of the instant standouts of the project is People, there is a lot of pain here. Ice Kid effortlessly flips through tenses; betrayal, family, and thankfulness for what Wiley did for him. Production wise People wouldn’t even sound out of place on a Tory Lanez or Drake project. Although, Ice Kid flows on it very well.
Hearing Ice Kid and Chip on the same song again 10 years on from the legendary Westwood Freestyle with such high levels of energy was exciting. This song brought back the nostalgia and almost felt like the freestyle in itself (Chip – Power Up review here).
It really is great seeing two of the UK’s best young talented artists going back with their contrasting styles. Ice Kid really does attack this instrumental aggressively but in my eyes, Chip took it, with his composure and delivery.
With the exception of People, my other two highlights from this project are Haze & Rozay and S.A.T. Haze& Rozay provides a timely tempo change to the project with a smoother sounding hook with great vocals from SayNaye. S.A.T is easily the best track in terms of sheer lyricism and reflectiveness, it is these songs where Ice Kid is at his best.
It will now be interesting to see where Ice Kid goes from here, this project acted as a good reminder of his talents. Will he go missing again? let’s see.
Top 3 tracks: Haze & Rozay, People, and S.A.T
7/10
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