Superheros are often representations of our highest ideals as a society. Hope, courage, undying love (sometimes to the detriment of the greater good) and the relentless pursuit of justice. In a similar breath, Supermuno is a rap superhero who upholds the ideals of hip hop. Cadence, wit, and lyrical ingenuity, all packaged in rhythm.
A singer/songwriter and presenter, Supermuno runs the corporate rat race from 9-5, while exploring the creative landscape outside work hours. A regular on 3ktv, with collaborations alongside the likes of RayKaz, Paintafresco, Benefit Tanaka and performances at Shoko Festival and the Zim Hip Hop Awards, Muno is a star on the horizon.
A fact the rapper herself proclaimed on Shoko Festival's "Read Em & Weep" with a verse that opened with "I'm the biggest deal and I'm only getting bigger..." A notion finally getting fulfilled by Project Superstar, Muno's debut EP.
The 6 track project is a moment of reflection propelled by somber production and witty lyricism. It strikes a balance between hip hop and R&B, showcasing Muno's strengths as both a rapper and a singer. This balancing act also extends to its lyrical makeup, as it manages to be personal while playful.
"Belly Of The Beast" is a tale of overcoming that utilises the phrase as a metaphor for Muno's lived experiences. "I know the story I've been Jonah in the whale," paints the image of escaping a trap and what should feel heavy is relieved by puns like "But I gotta keep it frank like Ocean" and "Now I've got the keys like Alicia."
This perfectly sets up "Honestly," which is centred on introspection and sees the conversation shift from the environment that surrounds Supermuno to the environment within. A poignant battle of hope against self doubts: "Face to face am I able? Made it here and I'm grateful/End of the road theres a rainbow."
All through this EP there are constant reflections on past and present. The harmonic vocals on the production to "Sing Me To Sleep" are the perfect rock bed for a trip down memory lane, one that speaks on a love that couldn't work out. It's sonic alchemy mirrors "Never Leave Me," which however exults God's grace in the midst of life's storms: "As I walk through the valley of the shadow of death/Regret weighs on my shoulders because I'm not there yet."
"Back in Bizzness" is confident and laced with bravado, a resolution the internal and external chaos Muno has been fighting: "Call me 007 the way I'm back on the mission/Can't let my food get cold I'm back in the kitchen." Sentiments echoed by the outro "Superstar" which looks back on the journey of Supermuno as an artist. It gift wraps an EP that reigns with a somber confidence but feels honest.
In Project Superstar there is an intentional delivery in lyricism, a measurement of cadence that marries together rapid fire bars and melodic refrains. The sonic and thematic compasses are aligned, which elevates even the simplest of bars. In the project's artwork Supermuno sits on the roof of a skyscraper with her symbol beamed on Harare's skyline. It signals the intention is a memorable introduction, one Project Superstar succeeds at within its niche.
Greedysouth rating: 7/10