Devlin is somewhat of an elusive artist these days. With a phenomenal
breakout debut album in 2010; bud, sweat & beers, his returns have been fairly
spaced out – A Moving Picture in 2013, and The Devil In in 2017. An artist who
produces ‘real’, often dark bars and self-declared “hard to market", it is clear
that his career hasn’t been the easiest. However, also clear is that he has
been one of the best MC’s in grime. We now see the Dagenham spitter picking up
steam with a release last year of “Live in the Booth”, and now this latest
music video entitled “Fun To Me”.
Interestingly released via GRM Daily, who do seem to be utilising
more grime music since recent debates over their credibility in the scene,
this video contains an official release of a track premiered on Sir Spyro’s ‘Grime
Show’ back in 2016. This sinister instrumental, formed by the fingertips of
Terror Danjah, sets the stage for Devlin to match this tone – nasty, blunt and
lyrically combative. The visuals present us with everyday settings, potentially
consciously orchestrated by Devlin to align him around similarities to himself –
early morning in the house, along familiar roads, and at a local pub – modest,
humble, regular, an average Jim. Yet, nothing is regular about Devlin
performance. Setting the narrative of this game being fun for him, the O.T.
rapper unpacks an arsenal of sharp, nimble flows; a balance of cunning ‘one liners’
and direct bars; and wicked rhyming patterns (3rd verse!).
This seems like a glimpse into Devlin next project. An announcement just 20 hours ago shows him disclose the release date and title of his forthcoming album. The Outcast. March 15th. The pre-order shows features from Syer B, Scratchy, long time acquaintances Rawz Artilla and Ghetts, and Steph Willis. "Live in the Booth" and "Fun To Me" being the first singles released. March is already gonna be top 3 months this year. As the new album's name may bring some of us nostalgia, here's "Community Outcast" to listen to while we wait.
Find Devlin on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.
Find Devlin on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.