‘It’s time to take it back like a bailiff!’

If you’ve never heard of Stig of The Dump, prepare to be knocked the hell out! Stig is our Stella-in-hand-weed-toking-screwed-faced-profanity-munching local hip-hop hero prepared to attack all of society’s woes in superb lyrical style. This is not for the faint hearted, actually scrap that: the album should brand a health warning for anyone with a heat condition. Stig has never been one to numb his opinions.

Here on his new offering, dropping via cool indie Lewis Recordings (Edan), the outspoken northern packs a bigger punch than Ron Jeremy’s briefs with microscopic observations encompassing hilarity, tragedy, angst, bravado and above all else a message of uncompromising individualism.

The release comes timely overdue after his single ‘I Got Game’ got the critic’s rubbing their hands. Guest production on ‘Who’s That Muddy Funkster’ from legendary Jehst says something and features with one-liner intellect Dr Syntax on ‘Give It Up’ and the catchy music industry lambasting ‘I know What You’re Thinking’ illustrate a perfect pairing of tones. A tale of life griped by alcohol, ‘Intoxicated’ holds brilliant charm too.

It’s when Stig perpetuates his return on oldskool nodder ‘Back,’ though, that his bite leaves the biggest mark. With dusty breaks, big scratches and sampled horns this is where Stig best roams.

In truth such is the unique palette required that this album won’t appeal to everyone’s taste. Not all the tracks hit the mark, and that’s a shame. I’d have rather seen a bit more variation, maybe Stig conquering a few more melodic joints—such is his talent (who remembers Stig’s verse on Skreins’ ‘Raise Ya Glasses’). But behind all the shouting, boozy attitude and neck-snapping bangers this album illustrates a rare lyrical supremacy. Stig has been blessed with a knack for storytelling—be it with a delivery that might scare some.

Heartfelt ‘Rise’ is close in line after ‘Back’ as the best on offer. About as close as you’re gonna get to a rest bit from the bombardment aggression, it’s a small introspective window into a rapper with a whole lot of heart. We hold our breath for the love collection sequel.

Words Rob Boffard

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