The debut album by Dublin producer Bitter Rocc is one of the best homegrown hip hop releases in aeons. Against a tastefully assembled backdrop of smoky rhythms, cut-up samples and floating piano, Rocc – who raps in a heavy Dub accent reminiscent of Damien Dempsey – delivers something of state of the nation address, with the gritty subject matter encompassing everything from economic collapse to prostitution and drug abuse. Think Love/Hate to a hip hop soundtrack.
The title cut, ‘Cold City’, with its mix of elegant piano and funky beats, is reminiscent of Mike Skinner at his best, while the atmospheric textures of ‘Watch It Burn’ take it into DJ Shadow territory. One of the best tracks, ‘Simple Life’, has a seductive groove based around piano and skittering beats, and also boasts a catchy chorus, although the hard-hitting lyric about prostitution means it’s far from typical pop fare.
Rocc again demonstrates his songwriting chops on ‘What Am I To Do’, which boasts another catchy refrain, as well as an impressive sonic patchwork comprised of vocal and string samples and a funky groove.
Overall, Cold City is a highly accomplished first outing for a promising talent.