Mudmowth is a Welsh artist who hadn’t written a hip hop track for eleven years until his baby daughter came along. That roused something in him and the result is a new album that has gotten him on our radar. A ten track outpouring of feelings, it’s called Kokoro.

By Graeme Smith

Before his hiatus, Mudmowth was known for releasing music through the Associated Minds record label which garnered him critical acclaim. His break took him around the world where he spent his time learning about the lives of others before settling back down. His daughter arrived last year, and so did Mudmowth 2.0.

His new album Kokoro opens with Peel the Skin. It’s a stripped-back and moody start, with a lo-fi vibe simmering under soulful vocals. An experimental hook comes with record scratches and mixed up vocals before the track hits its groove with a free-flowing verse that delivers a message of rebirth. A spiritual and meditative end rounds off a strong start.

Digging for Dreams features DJ Jaffa and hits hard with an old school beat and lyrics that eschew toxic masculinity before title track Kokoro gives us a jazzy moment. Its heartfelt lyrics, dedicated to Mudmowth’s daughter will have you feeling all warm and fuzzy. It’s a highlight.

Dedication includes Blaktrix and Emcee Millz, and is rich with self-reflection and pleasing percussion. Watashi sees Mudmowth joining forces with Sakura Murobi and gives us something bright, sultry and life-affirming. The Music has a timeless vibe to it, and engages with its storytelling lyrics.

Unity opens the album’s final leg with an image-laden message of empathy and community. Peace Signs and Pizza introduces elements of self-effacing humour while Hideaway, featuring Liliia Kysil, is, by contrast, deep and thoughtful, and includes some classic keys. Mop of Hair closes the album with another moment of experimentation. Interesting textures underpin lyrics infused with bittersweet nostalgia. It’s a final highlight.

Kokoro by Mudmowth is out now and you can check it out below.