Beans, the abstract rap maestro of Anti Pop Consortium fame, teams up with electronic avant-garde architect Sasu Ripatti (known for his work as Vladislav Delay and Luomo) to release “ZWAARD 12,” a track off their much-anticipated collaborative album ZWAARD, out March 13th on Tygr Rawwk Records. This single embodies a sensory, intergalactic journey, blending hip hop’s rhythmic backbone with an 80’s infused production that features classic drum machine tones, layered with atmospheric pads and a rich vocal delivery, punctuated by percussion that offers a rhythmic counterpoint. This synthesis of genres reflects both artists’ reputations as innovators who push the boundaries of their respective fields without compromise.
“ZWAARD,” named after the Dutch word for a heavy-bladed weapon, marks a pivotal moment in both artists’ careers, showcasing over a decade of mutual respect and the idea that collaboration sharpens each artist’s creative edge. Beans brings his lyrical prowess to Ripatti’s production landscape, characterized by hostile environments that somehow manage to feel like home. The project is a testament to Beans’ versatility as an MC, able to navigate through Ripatti’s sonic mazes with ease. Their joint effort is not just a musical release but a bold statement on the power of cross-genre collaboration, with Ripatti’s minimalist dub electronics providing the perfect backdrop for Beans’ abstract rap narratives.
