Rup Rup On Zebra LP I first got sent Rup's stuff about 18months ago when he released a 12" on the Hear Today label. Since then his star has risen, and a debut EP release is followed by his first full-length album 'Rup on Zebra'. What first struck me, other than the amazing cover artwork, was that Rup (short for Rupert) has lost none of the appeal and braggadocio personality that made him stand out. His lyrical style has developed, as has the imagery that he depicts in the wanderings and wilderness of his mind and personality. Kicking off literally with 'Brace Yourself', a funk led, punch-line littered, razor-like one-liner track that’s still as fresh as it sounded back in 05, through the down-tempo acid-jazz wilderness of 'See', to the straight up high-energy banger 'Rollin' Rup delivers intelligent wordplay and self effacing humour by the gallon. At his best here, combining with an array of well produced beats to deliver a wholly satisfying blend of styles that create an unguarded glimpse into his mind. 'Step' gives the best example of how Rup's lyrical style has developed. An almost psychedelic-feeling track fells like it fell out of the "Fear & Loathing Las Vegas" soundtrack is laced verbally with Rup's introspective meandering.... Lyrics painting a vivid tripped out scenery.... Exploring his drug fuelled excess with intelligent finely crafted wordplay. The fact that this LP also features a remix of King Cnut, and the original version of Angels & Devils shouldn't put anyone off this LP. The new tracks are fresh, and as an all round package, this is a complete LP. It seems there is plenty more story telling to come from London's man on a Zebra. Rup delivers intelligent wordplay and self effacing humor by the gallon. At his best here....creating an unguarded glimpse into his mind. - Mr Lingo © ukhh.com 1999 - 2006