May 27, 2022
Room 73
Yorkshire's rap pioneer, Chiedu Oraka drops his long-awaited 5-track EP, 'Council Estate Confidence'. Coined as 'The Black Yorkshire Man', Oraka is known for bringing Grime/Rap to his native Hull via his music, social poetry and collective, 'Lockdown'. The only rapper from Yorkshire to achieve what he already has within the industry, this latest EP is a significant body of work from Chiedu and one that spreads the message of perseverance and pride of where you come from; as well as delivering on straight up club bangers that would hit any dancefloor. Kick starting the EP is the energetic and bouncy, 'North Face'. An anthem in it's own right, Chiedu's lyrical prowess shines against a backdrop of reggaeton inspired production; his reflection on where he was before his life in music standing as a powerful message. This is followed by 'For A Minute' which showcases Chiedu's more vulnerable side, shining a light on emotion, sensitivity and romance. 'Dancing In The Moonlight' comes next; Chiedu's weighty words on his own journey and resolve to succeed stand tall against a backdrop of skulking basslines. Then arrives, 'Wavey', addictive and compelling, the track combines ethereal vocal samples with melodic synths that set the tone for a hard-hitting banger. Finally, 'Late Night Shift' rounds off the EP - raw, gritty and unflinching, Chiedu takes listener's through a dark storyline of a late night robbery, landing alongside a cinematic music video to match the track's intrepid energy.