Urban World

Guvnor: ‘Last Impression' mixtape

Follow up from the ‘3rd impression' and also the final CD from this mixtape series.

Will Guvnor find room to fit in or does he simply want to blend in?

With a scene that many would describe as almost ‘dead', the ‘Last Impression' came as what I'd describe as a rebirth. Coming from the ‘Ida Estate' south of Tottenham, Guvnor emerged into the underground grime scene ready to leave a lasting impression - literally. From the intro featuring a selection of grime sets from classic MC's like D double E and Dizzee Rascal, to tunes that explore every genre of grime beats, you are bound to experience an array of old school emotions. He opens with a bang, which only left me expecting an explosive mixtape…

…and I wasn't disappointed! The contents of each song are highly creative. Unique from your average mixtape, one could confuse ‘Last Impression' with a mainstream album. The mix of hardcore and mellow grime beats allows the variation of hood lyrical content and lyrics that are somewhat poetic. He demonstrates his wisdom through the tracks ‘Human Nature' and ‘All for One', which will definitely leave you meditating on life. However, that is if you have an ear for complex metaphors i.e.

‘with this weather, how can I see, but now that the rain has stopped I'm caught in the breeze'.

To appreciate Guvnor as a ‘lyrical Assassin', it is necessary to have a passion for the art rather than the entertainment of music. Although you are still able to ackowledge his talent as a musician simply from his unique song topics like ‘Drunk in the Afternoon' and his fantasy (maybe reality) story of being at an ‘Anne Summer's party'. Guvnor manages to give away his cheeky personality through his music, which is not only hilarious, but worrying at the same time as he brags, ‘ I ain't a baller but your girlfriend can make my balls bounce' (Zombie Walk - bonus track).

Focusing on his genius talent for word play, it is unfortunate to say that many may not feel highly impressed, simply because his execution lacks clarity. Mumbling and grumbling could be what is heard; unless in deep focus. It is a shame, as when you do eventually realise what he's on about, you are highly impressed! If it's the mainstream Guvnors aiming for, he will need to sort it out, otherwise I'm sure the underground scene has no problem with it.

‘Last Impression' is definitely the beginning for the rising star. Guvnor shows he is his own artist, with few collaborations with Wretch, Esskay and Scorcher, it is clear that blending in is not an option. ‘Every lyric is an art' with this project. He hooked up with big grime producers Teeza, Dot Rotten, JME and more, showing his aim for a quality mixtape. Not only will he fit into the grime industry, I have a feeling he will eventually stand out.

One to look out for!

Download ‘Last Impression': http://www.sendspace.com/file/fy06nk

RATING: 4/5