Raw self expression. This is the phrase that comes to mind when describing Yadis' artistry. The young rapper from Harare blends together Shona and English lyricism in introspective storytelling that shines with sharp wit, while reflecting the everyday realities of the Zimbabwean youth.
A rap talent born out of a love affair with poetry, the artist has made a name for herself with a slew of memorable verses on features such as Zazise's "Ncitsha," Dray Blcvk's "Bout The Money," and a standout performance on the 2023 Zim Hip Hop Awards Cypher.
So with her talent undeniable, what's been missing is just the music, and Ndakusasa finally gives us that.
The six track project is Yadis' first ever release. Album, single, EP or otherwise. It's the first time we see Yadis at more than a glance but in the driving seat.
The title of the mixtape, "Ndakusasa" - I'm speaking - is a reflection of the music. While reflective of society at large, at it's core it is deeply personal. It's Yadis' story in brief chapters, that say a lot in a few words. However it is very much still raw.
Ndakusasa's key themes centre on mental struggles, resilience and the financial hustle. In the opener, "Hakuna Prophet," the message is that you have to lean on yourself to make it on your own in hard times because no one is coming to give you a miracle: "Hakuna prophet aripo kana waomerwa, kune mavultures arikuda something chekupocketa." It also makes comment on how religion has been twisted into an enterprise.
"Simba Rako" brings with it a somber mood, driven by Yadis' reflections on how life can feel like a losing battle. While understanding of the lows of life, "Simba Rako" calls on to not wallow but to maintain our self belief: "Unozvivenga cause when you try hauhwine/Imbozvipa grace and in due time you'll see/Uri simbi yebasa my g."
While self belief is echoed throughout Ndakusasa's 6 tracks, "Old Friend" is a conversation with darkness that wonders if it will all work out: "Got me waiting on a better day, this day may never come in time."
The mixtape wanders from gritty trap and drill beats on "Kepele" - where Hooksmith steals the limelight with his verse - and "Havazi Vanhu," to melancholic drums and piano keys on "Old Friend," then haunting Trap Chimurenga (a fusion of trap, mbira and Chimurenga music) sounds on "Life Yangu," which has a defining plea to be free from judgment.
Yadis makes a decent effort on her debut tape, with a balance existing between the brilliant moments and the rough cuts. She's delivers memorable songwriting on tracks like "Simba Rako" and "Life Yangu," but then "Hakuna Prophet" and "Havazi Vanhu" could still do with more work in that regard.
However this is the expectation from a mixtape. It is an artist's free pass to experiment and test the waters. What's important to note is that Yadis has finally arrived, and she has the potential to reach the pinnacle of Zimbabwean hip hop.
Greedysouth rating: 6.2/10
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