Photography by George Muncey 

James Mellen
James Mellen

Bristol-based writer, specialising in musings on the world of music and fashion.

Slowthai finally makes his return with dark new single ‘Selfish’, plus announces his third studio album

slowthai has finally shared the news and details of third studio record ‘UGLY’, accompanied by lead single ‘Selfish’. The album is set to release on March 3rd, via Method Records. The record was produced by Dan Carey (Wet Leg, black midi, Fontaines D.C.), accompanied by slowthai’s long-time and close collaborator Kwes Darko, plus some additional production on tracks from Jockstrap’s Taylor Skye and beabadoobee guitarist and producer Jacob Bugden. 

‘Selfish’ carries a live edge, departing from slowthai’s original grime-soaked hip-hop sound. His passion for punk and other live moments were prevalent on his collaborations with producer extraordinaire Mura Masa, and with ‘Selfish’ it seems like he is fully following this route with its thunderous, engine-like bassline and live drums. The production is a melting pot of hip-hop, punk, electronica and noise rock, the track shapeshifting into more rage and insanity as it progresses. His delivery is collected, reserved, and dripping with charisma, but still drops into shouts and bile-fuelled flows in classic slowthai fashion.  

This new single is a sonic departure from previous efforts, with slowthai channelling a darker, more mature and visceral sound than ever before. His innovative approach to writing is more focussed than ever, with ‘Selfish’ setting an incredibly high bar for his third record. 

Listen/watch ‘Selfish’ here:


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