Egyptian Hip Hop – Some Reptiles Grew Wings

Don’t be fooled into thinking that Egyptian Hip Hop are another Madchester revival after the opening synth stabs and melody that open up Moon Crooner, the first track off their Some Reptiles Grew Wings EP, as such a label doesn’t begin to cover what this four-piece have to offer. After various demos which I’ll admit didn’t have me convinced, this EP feels more complete and a fully formed statement of intent with funk aficionado Hudson Mohawke on production duties helping refine their sound.

The notable highlight here for me is Rad Pitt with it’s soft understated melody and falling tomtom rhythm that could soundtrack any blissed out modern romance, but it isn’t that the remainder is weak. No, it is just that the songs don’t flow into each other, and whilst each track has individual drive – the EP doesn’t quite hang together as a whole. Such a criticism may sound a little harsh on such a youthful band who are obviously still experimenting with their sound, but as you can hear on Middle Name Period – they are so close to exceeding the very high bar they have set for themselves with an infectious synthline and skittling drums – but but it doesn’t quite reach the heady height it could. On its own, this EP demonstrates the band’s intent and undeniable ability – and I just hope their debut full length in the future will allow them enough space to fully expose their talent.

Some Reptiles Grew Wings is out now on Moshi Moshi Records

[BUY] Egyptian Hip Hop – Some Reptiles Grew Wings on 12″ @ Pure Groove | Rough Trade | HMV
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Egyptian Hip Hop – Moon Crooner