Rian Brazil is reshaping genre definitions with his fluid sound and is poised to make a significant impact. The London-based artist has dedicated recent months to crafting new soundscapes that navigate the underground scene. “There’s no straightforward path here, no genre that I fit into neatly. I strive to create music that serves as ear candy; music that is so pleasing to the ear that it captivates the human experience on a sonic level,” he shares with CLASH.
Growing up on a council estate on the south coast, Rian was exposed to a diverse range of influences that ignited his musical passion early on. “I got into music around the age of twelve through my Mum’s partner, who was a drum and bass artist. Brighton influenced every aspect of my musical education, giving me the chance to go out and experience it,” he reflects.
Rian admits that his upbringing in an energetic dance music scene filled with parties affected his academic performance. However, achieving a single GCSE in English was just enough to support his musical dreams. He utilized his love for wordplay in his breakout tracks, ‘Smiley Grill’ and ‘Close 2 U’.
“Grime and DnB inspired my writing, but I was always a singer too. I’m not sure if I was any good when I was younger, but I thought I was. I used to really enjoy James Morrison,” he recalls with a grin. “I knew I could sing along to a bassline, so when I began listening to more rap, I experimented by blending the two.” The outcome is a fusion of elements from rap, jungle, and garage, featuring thought-provoking vocals skillfully reworked to explore different pitch dimensions.
Rian recognizes that his breakthrough was made possible through a certain level of risk. “I left everything behind to move to London, and it was daunting, but I believe it has paid off,” he states. “I needed something new to facilitate my growth. For the past year, I’ve been focused on expressing myself, and now I’m here doing interviews via webcam with you. A year ago, I had never even stepped inside a big studio.”
With a debut EP already released and plans for a mixtape scheduled for later this year, Rian Brazil is determined to excite. “It’s going to completely alter everyone’s perception of who they thought I was. It will be revolutionary.”
—
WHAT: Alternative Rap
WHERE: London
3 SONGS: ‘close 2 u’, ‘breathe’, ‘Smiley Grill’
FACT: Rian is an ardent Manchester United supporter
—
Rian Brazil is seen wearing the Merrell SpeedARC Matis in Green Multi, which can be found at schuh. Featured in CLASH 130.
—
Words: Harvey Marwood
Photography: Bella Howard
Fashion: Jessica Ann Richardson
Styling Assistant: Ana Lamond
New York City rapper billy woods is back with his latest single 'BLK ZMBY'. The last few years have been particularly productive for the avant-garde rap artist, as he has
Kwengface is prepared for his upcoming chapter. He initially rose to global prominence as a member of the influential, though controversial, UK drill collective Zone 2, hailing from Peckham.
Video games would not be the same without an engaging soundtrack that enhances the character-driven moments and the immersive world-building aspects of gaming.
Ran Nir has unveiled his newest single, ‘New Joy’. This energetic track showcases the multi-talented artist's reflective songwriting.
This month brings a special edition as we compile the best of March while also offering a preview of some Record Store Day releases. If you’re eager to
Emerging DJ and producer Arthi collaborates with club music icon Roska for the exciting new single ‘Hot Minute’, set to release on April 4th through Rinse. The initial
Rian Brazil is poised to make a significant impact with his fluid approach to genre. This London-based artist is fully immersed in his craft.