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The Settlers - EP Review: Speech

29 Mar 2019 // A review by Corinne Rutherford

The Settlers are a thriving hip-hop crew from Lyttleton Harbour in Christchurch. This is the band’s latest body of work, an EP called Speech. The evolution of Speech is the continuum of a life journey, following on from their previous releases; EP Steps and album Due Date.

The Settlers have a sound which has been described as a conscious expression of rap and soulful vocals. Dynamic wordplay and robust content. The slick composition of words is evident on this EP, as thoughtful lyrics tumble out supported by tight beats and polished production. This is the new generation of Hip-hop rappers, the resurgence of a scene which became stagnant after the earthquakes.

Comprising of Anthony Horan and Elias Tyro (lead MC’s), Laura Hunter (lead vocals), and Mike Thorpe (DJ), The Settlers are fast gaining a reputation which is reflected in their sold out shows and impressive support act performances.

Launching into Speech with the “conscious expression of rap” that the Settlers are getting a name for, the first track Set It Straight which was released as a single is a cleverly crafted rap of mindful and sensitive lyrics which are particularly poignant the week I am writing this review.

There is a vein of empathy and warmth running through each song on this EP. This isn’t purely rap designed to rhyme, it has soul.

Laura Hunter has a beautiful melodic voice that is fitting for this style of music and is a well-established musician in her own right. Each person in the crew compliments the rest, delivering intelligent thoughtful rhymes on each of the seven tracks (or six tracks and one Interlude).

The Settlers continue to deliver solid content with Speech. I recommend a listen if you want to sink your teeth into substantial thought provoking lyrics wrapped in some catchy cool vibes.

Rating: ( 4 / 5 )
 

About The Settlers

The Settlers are a thriving hip-hop crew reigning from Lyttelton Harbour and crafted in the cradle of Canterbury. A soulful expression of rap and its qualities that expresses an uplifting approach to the hip-hop genre in a gritty smooth blend. Their dynamic wordplay and solid content bring a strong presence of awareness and empathy. They provoke thought and adorn their subjective while relating to the common man and woman with both integrity and levity.

The settlers consist of Anthony Horan, Elias Tyro and Laura Hunter and their synergy of vocals form an animated rise of frequency DJ’d by Michael Thorpe. With early success playing at Rhythm and Alps 2017 and recently played Northern Bass bringing in 2019. They have consistent packed out local shows with performances throughout New Zealand and recent support for the 2018 sold out Home Brew tour in Wellington and Christchurch. The Settlers raise questions hungry for relations, engaging the audience with witty tales of wisdom, battles of fear and games of desire, a truly conscious resonance of modern hip-hop. After the fresh release of their fourth EP Steps


Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for The Settlers

Releases

Timeline
Year: 2021
Type: Album
Steps
Year: 2018
Type: EP
Due Date
Year: 2017
Type: Album
Train of Thought
Year: 2016
Type: EP
...
Year: 2016
Type: EP

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