The opening strings on Wolf Castle’s (Tristan Grant) newest EP, Next Life, might tell what’s to come if you’re unfamiliar with his work. However, he makes quick work of smashing your expectations to bits with provocative lyrics and thick bass that digs its way into your chest.
The Mi’kmaq rapper is out for blood with this release. Each track is, on the surface, aggressive and urgent. Grant cleverly disguises the real messages under a layer of sex and fast living, but upon closer listening it’s clear his aspirations are important to him. The struggle of achieving goals and reaching new heights is a lyrical constant, even if the package is a little over the top.
There are some softer moments. “Coming My Way” is the second to last song of the EP and has more of a chill, R&B vibe than the rest. The harsh bass is traded out for warped and muted synth, and features sung vocals from Harmony Adesola, stylized as “Harmz”. There’s less focus on a physical relationship, instead exploring emotional connections. It’s a standout track because of its change of pace, and shows Grant’s versatility.
This change of pace only lasts for one song before ending the EP on an explosive high. “Burn It Down” is clever and quick. Grant boasts his rapping prowess and the road of success ahead of him. He also drops references that are so out of left field it will have any millennial excitedly playing back the track to catch them all. Napoleon Dynamite, Naruto, The Proud Family, Fairly Odd Parents – it’s a strange and hilarious combination of media you wouldn’t expect to see in one place.
Grant’s talent first and foremost as a writer can’t be overlooked on this EP. That might seem funny to say about an EP where “she visit the jungle, my dick a safari” is a line that exists. In fact, “dick” is probably the most uttered word on the EP. If anything, Grant shows an expertise at balancing lines that are thought-provoking and clever with lines that are just pure, vulgar fun. For instance, his Mi’kmaq identity is mentioned several times, and is clearly an important part of who he is. He’s also constantly rapping about his ambitions and his own skills as a rapper.
At the end of the day this EP is a fun listen that’s sure to get your blood pumping. It’s high energy from start to finish, and if you can learn to embrace the coarse subject matter, you’ll definitely have a good time listening.
Tour Dates:
08.09.19 – Halifax, NS @ North by Night Market
01.26.19 – Moncton, NB @ Festival 506
01.18.20 – Dartmouth, NS @ Alderny Landing Theatre
01.19.20 – Halifax, NS @ Pier 21
01.21.20 – Halifax, NS @ Halifax Central Library