Matt Sharp
Updated: Apr 29
Faith, fatherhood, marriage and his own upbringing. These are the main themes examined by UK rapper, producer and composer, Oscar #Worldpeace in Mum, Pray For Your Son. This ten-track mixtape highlights many of his biggest strengths, with incisive lyricism and cold production in abundance.
Photo Credit - Shane Vincent
“Daddy, where’s your bible?”, asks Oscar’s son on mixtape opener ‘privilege prayers’, immediately setting the tone for the project’s thematic direction. Bouncy 808s and shimmering vocal samples are joined with Oscar’s vocal, as he shows off his well-honed flows; an excellent opener.
The project makes great use of minimalist melodies in combination with hard-hitting drums. There’s a lot of songs that possess an eerie quality through their melodic elements. Perhaps a signifier of the intense realities of life that Oscar is frequently rapping about. ‘Pure Intent’, third in the track-list, is an example of this. Beginning with a glorious soulful sample, then transcending into something far more brooding. It gives the whole project a raw, and gritty quality. It’s steeped in reality at every stage.
A lighter moment is enjoyed on the previously released ‘Heaven’, featuring Qendresa. A tale of love, interspersed with a wonderful contribution from Qendresa on the chorus. Some jazzy instrumental aspects are layered with Oscar’s verses about feelings of love for another. One of my personal favourites from the tape.
Photo Credit - Shane Vincent
‘And Sh!t’ would be the opposite end of the spectrum, with hefty bass and skippy flows throughout. Another personal favourite for different reasons sonically, Oscar is on form with his delivery on this one. He maintains substance in his lyrics while providing hard verses, something not many are capable of.
The final offering, and perhaps the most introspective of all, is ‘For You’. This is the most reflective and open I’ve ever heard from the artist; he touches on dealing with his own struggles, and balancing that with having a family that needs him. It’s a personal, and for many, a relatable story that is bound to resonate. It’s also a wonderful way to complete what is a highly impressive body of work.
Ultimately, it finishes how it started, with the voice of Oscar’s son, providing a delightful circularity. The project overall sounds uniquely Oscar #Worldpeace, as he is someone who has a clear sense of individuality in his work. The instrumental choices are bold, yet listenable, and the lyricism is top tier. I sincerely hope this project is not slept on, and it receives the widespread praise it’s deserving of.