The last year has caused a plethora of highs and lows for us all, meaning that many of us are in need of some reflection. And, with reflection comes inspiration. This is most certainly the case for jazz musician and singer Rarelyalways. Drawing on the grief that lockdown has caused for many of us, the artist offers his appropriately-named track “Lamenting”. The vibrating bass offers a foundation for a rhythmically chaotic monologue from the rapper, which is rooted in his experiences as a keyworker. Jazz and grime collide here to offer us a thought-provoking narrative and an electrically charged-track.

“Lockdown, although tough, was an enormous inspiration,” explains Rarelyalways when asked about the inspiration behind the track. “I settled with the name ‘Lamenting’ as the track sounded like I was venting to my best friend, in this case, the microphone. As you do, lamenting about the inconvenience I’ve been exposed to and the big boots I have to fill. I may get slaughtered for this opinion but, in these uncertain times, I feel we’ve all been sick in one way, shape or form.”

Following on from his previous successful works, “Lamenting” – which comes with a self-directed and self-written video from Rarelyalways – is the first track to be taken from the artist’s upcoming EP “Manic”. Set to feature more production-heavy tracks produced by Hanni El Khatib, and introspective lyrics, the upcoming project will be released on June 11th – just in time for the supposed ending of lockdown and the commencement of a period of reflection for many. So, mark your calendars, as the upcoming EP is set to be explosive.

Listen to “Lamenting” below…