Little Simz, Saba, JME: UK alt rapper Saiming shares the tracks that have inspired his stellar sophomore EP, “what’s the alternative?”.
There’s a dreamy intimacy to Saiming’s sophomore EP “what’s the alternative?”. The South London alternative rapper peruses around jazz-tinged and subtle sonic backdrops with craft and charisma, his flows careful yet casual, his wordplay painting depictions of self-reflection, societal commentary and a healthy dollop of steeze. There’s a collection of fellow rising names attached, from BexBlu to Yinka and Maniko, with Saiming showcasing his artistic community and presenting his skill and vision across the 7-pronged EP that fulfils a similar tone to stalwart acts like Joe James and KwolleM.
In our latest On Repeat, Saiming shares with Wonderland the tracks that played their part in inspiring the body of work.
Listen to “what’s the alternative?”…
Saiming Is On Repeat…
Souls Of Mischief” – “93 ‘Til Infinity”
“93 ’Til Infinity” is really timeless, I think the sampling in the instrumentals from this time in hip hop really inspires what I try to make.
Gil Scott-Heron – “We Almost Lost Detroit – Live, Bremen, 1983”
I think as artists, we have a responsibility to use our platform and the music we make to share what we believe in or it isn’t really us. Gil Scott-Heron was someone who really made sure to keep his message at the centre of his music while making beautiful & timeless sounds.
Earl Sweatshirt, The Alchemist – “Vin Skully”
This song really inspired “2 lungs”. the way Earl Sweatshirt turns tough emotion into art that flows always resonates and over The Alchemist’s hypnotic production it’s one of them songs I can listen to on loop.
JME – “96 Bars of JME”
JME has always been a big influence and this track feels like a diary entry from one of the best MCs to ever do it.
The Roots ft. Erykah Badu, Eve, Jill Scott – “You Got Me – Drum & Bass Mix”
This is such a nice balance of being loyal to the original while fusing genres.
Parkland – “factory settings”
I’ve really been enjoying listening to jungle & whenever jazz is involved it’s just different gravy. very exciting what Parkland’s doing.
Saba – “LIFE”
Saba’s storytelling on “LIFE” always stuck with me. It feels like every lyric is so deliberately chosen and placed to impact you and to paint a picture of his experiences. Saba, ghetto sage and that whole movement hugely influenced my discovery of music growing up and becoming my own artist.
Little Simz – “Angel”
I wrote “playing games • wise lady” after listening to No Thank You and this song stood out to me cause Simz stays introspective while she reminds herself and reminds you who she is.
Zino Vinci – “Western Union”
This is that type of new music with the nostalgia of the music that inspired it that I think we’re all tryna capture done perfectly.
LAUSSE THE CAT – “Redstripe Rhapsody”
I’ve been obsessed ever since Nori showed me this song, it’s a whole journey and a time capsule captured in 8 minutes. where’s LAUSSE THE CAT gone?
