Norwich-based rapper and producer $ebbuku has dropped his anticipated new EP ‘Juvenile’, a six-track release that fuses lo-fi conscious hip-hop with a fierce and sprawling sonic intensity. Blending live instrumentation, inventive electronics, and carefully placed sampling, the EP moves fluidly between jazz, punk, funk and hip-hop, creating a vibrant and layered sound unique to $ebbuku’s vision.
At the heart of the project is the title track and lead single ‘Juvenile’, which sets the tone with its distorted mix of double bass, boxy drums, brass, piano and biting guitar. These elements, layered with interlocking melodies and sharp sampling, form a complex and textured backdrop for $ebbuku’s intense social commentary.
Speaking about the EP, $ebbuku—real name Sebastian Bates—reflects on both personal growth and youthful defiance: “Having big ideas and a lush vision of the future is something I always had as a kid. With this EP, myself and the band wanted to show how life has a different plan for all of us, but we’re all still just big kids with even bigger ideas. Juvenile is my insight on being a young person going against the grain. Since the loss of my mother and spending time in different schools and hospitals fighting for my future, I’ve realised that freedom to express is worth shouting about. Sure, that sounds serious, but I’m still the goofy, nerdy dude I’ve always been—I just shell angsty lyrics over breakbeats now!
The writing process was the most fun and authentic we’ve had, especially with all the live recordings. Blending live instrumentation, breaking down vinyl, and rebuilding musical puzzles really defines our sound. Whenever we link up—on stage or on Nik’s (drummer) sofa—it’s like lightning in a bottle. I hope the music carries a message: as a young man taking bigger steps in this weird world, it’s okay to reflect on how you got here and still stay true to yourself.”
With ‘Juvenile’, $ebbuku steps further into his artistic identity, blending emotional depth with musical innovation to create a sound which is as visceral and urgent as it is innovative and thoughtful. It’s a bold statement from an artist on the rise—ready to take his message and music to new heights.
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