Chicago’s beloved underground rapper Mick Jenkins is back with a bold new album, a murder of crows, the debut collab project with fast-rising London producer EMIL.
Including the incendiary “Coco Gauff” and the intimate “words i should’ve said” ft. London rap star ENNY, the project emerges from a combative place of reputational validation and modern-times cultural commentary. Glorious and feverish, it’s a showcase of rare, gifted young beatmaking and unflinching, hyper-intelligent wordplay from one of the most coveted underground rap poets in the landscape right now. Indeed, Jenkins and EMIL’s natural chemistry and eye for detail have delivered one of the most cultivated and high-quality joint tapes connecting the US and UK landscapes this year.
Speaking on the meaning behind the project, Mick states: “The title is based on old folklore about crows. Crows are scavengers, and when they appear in large numbers, they’re said to indicate impending death. This belief was reinforced during large-scale wars and battles, when flocks of crows would gather and feed on the bodies left behind. Crows are incredibly smart and vengeful. Farmers see them as pests, so they learn how to retaliate. Emil and I talked about leaning into that spirit – our overall vibe being ‘give me mine’ and ‘y’all got me fucked up.’ Still, the true nature of our feelings runs deep and in several directions.”
The project marks a bold, creative chapter for Jenkins, who remains one of the most beloved and thought-provoking rap talents of this generation. Jenkins’ new chapter promises thrilling collab projects with some of the most sought-after and talented beatmakers in the world right now – stretching his already substantial legacy as a powerful and connected artist unwilling to rest on laurels, his sights sets on bold new soundscapes and artistic connections.
EMIL, the south east London producer has already been earmarked as one of the most exciting talents in the scene, with credits alongside Ghetts, Doja Cat, Loyle Carner, Sampha, Odeal, Potter Payper, and Knucks already to his name. With nearly 500K monthly listeners spanning from London to South Africa showcasing the breath of his appeal, the natural lightness and assurance of touch have made him such a sought-after talent both sides of the Atlantic.
