Announced by Knucks only a day prior to its release, the US-UK link-up caught many fans off guard...
Words Gabriel Chance-Munoz (@gabrieljcmunoz)
The respective UK rap and hip-hop culture Knucks and Larry June find themselves spearheading radiates throughout their music. The duo have fine-tuned their sounds through a consistent run of scaled-up projects, culminating in Knucks’ critically acclaimed Alpha House and June’s Spaceships on the Blade. Despite hailing from North West London and San Francisco, the pair’s unique methods meld harmoniously on, 'I Suppose'.
Knucks kicks off the track by rapping with subtle intonation over Kenny Beats' drill drums, elegantly chopped-up samples and trap bass. He has mastered the modern twist on UK rap he set out to achieve aged 16. Larry June, on the other hand, has a vintage quality. He spits a spoken flow on warm West Coast production, gliding over soulful samples and bouncy percussion.
Nobody was better equipped to orchestrate the two than Kenny Beats. His production credits speak for themselves, ranging from Schoolboy Q to IDLES and FKA Twigs. The US audio engineer is no stranger to producing for UK rappers, having previously worked with Headie One, SL and others. His approach, famously exhibited on the YouTube series The Cave, tailors his talents fully to the artists in question.
On ‘I suppose’ the trio seamlessly combine to deliver a suave and buoyant track. The pitched-up synths resemble something off Alpha House, yet Larry June brings his own vibrancy.
Both rappers' characters are visually reinforced by the slick video that accompanies the track. Footage of Melrose Avenue in LA is laced amongst shots of council blocks and high-rises in London. Several takes include the duo sitting on the bonnet of two glossy
vintage cars, personalising the number plates for good measure.