Interview: Scrannabis

Newcastle hip-hop artist Scrannabis releases his brand new EP, Leaves, which sees the artist exploring confusion and self-doubt and sonically veering into indie territory. There are still the soulful beats and soft rap delivery that we’ve grown to know and love, however, this collection of songs sees the introduction of stacked harmonies and a more poppy production.

We catch up with the artist to find out more…

How did you get into writing and performing music?
That’s a great question, it actually started with me just always being sent to my room by my parents all the time. I would steal my mum’s CDs and play them on this little radio I had. I found Logic Pro when I was like 13, from there that was kind of it really. 

What makes a good song in your opinion?
Melody and tone for sure! If they hit just right, I’ll have the song stuck in my head for months and eventually use it as inspiration for my own music! 

What are some of the lyrical themes in your new EP, Leaves?
I guess the theme throughout is that I’ve realised that I’m a very flighty person and I don’t really tend to spend time explaining myself or my actions.  I just leave instead. The EP is centred around that I guess all while still being a bit tongue and cheek I think. 

Sonically, what can you expect?
A WHOLE NEW SOUND! Yeah, basically went through a period of time where I would just hate all the music I made so I started listening to the likes of Dominic Fike, Harry Styles, Thomas Headon and Rachel Chinouriri. So I guess you can blame them for how all over the place the sound is now! 

You say this EP is the start of a new direction. How does it differ from past releases?
A WHOLE NEW SOUND! Yeah, basically went through a period of time where I would just hate all the music I made so I started listening to the likes of Dominic Fike, Harry Styles, Thomas Headon and Rachel Chinouriri. So I guess you can blame them for how all over the place the sound is now! 

I guess the way this project has been different from the last is just the production more than anything. I’ve tried heading in a way more indie-pop kind of direction. I’ve been focusing so much more on the vocal tones of this record too. I actually have a couple of songs where I don’t even rap! Just straight-up singing ah, who would have thought!

Where do you see your place in a burgeoning North East hip-hop scene? Which of your local music contemporaries inspire you?
I actually find it hard to place within the hip-hop scene these days, I just feel my music sticks out like a sore thumb in relation to everyone in that scene, whether that’s a good thing I’m sure. These days I generally look up to the likes of Luke Royalty, Lizzie Esau and also India Arkin.

Have you anything coming up to support the release?
On the 6th of July I’m throwing a free EP launch at the grove in Byker with the help of 456Live! I’m really loving getting back into the swing of this!