I’m 4MATT – born and based in Liverpool, fully tapped into the sound, the streets and the stories behind the music. My focus is grime, but I keep my ears open to all of the raw and real talent coming out of the city. This sections about giving flowers where they’re due, spotlighting artists on the come up and documenting the culture as it evolves – no filter, no industry gloss. Whether its cyphers in the park, shelling’s on stage or behind the scenes moves, I’m here to catch it recap it, and rep it properly.
Music in the North West has always been missing out on the spotlight compared to places like London or Brum, but that doesn’t mean the talent isn’t here- its just been overlooked. Liverpool’s got its own sound, its own pace and a scene that’s been bubbling for time. From the basement sets to street freestyles, there’s real energy building, and its about time more people clocked it. I’m just here to document what’s already happening and make sure the ones doing it properly get seen, heard and remembered.
This past month’s been hectic in the best way. I’ve been out hitting up all kinds of events – album launches, listening parties, live sets and trust me, the scene is popping off. I even took a trip down to London for the DJ Maximum & Friends show, which was my first time there in a while. Mad to see DJ Maximum shelling it with a few of the BBK mandem – JME, Chip, Shorty, Frisco, Novelist and a few others showed up and lit the place up. The energy was unreal, one of those nights where you remember exactly why grime holds such weight in the capital. Its more than music- its movement, its history, its presence. That’s the kind of consistent energy I’m hoping we see more of up here in the North West, especially in Liverpool. We’ve got the voices – now we just need the volume.
For example @bigdaddykoj is one of those names in Liverpool that’s really starting to get the recognition he’s deserved for time. He’s been doing his thing for years, solid foundations, but recently he’s been turning even more heads with the music he’s been putting out. When people talk about Liverpool grime, Koj is one of the first names they mention.
On the 3rd of April, me my guy Oscar from @Hazy.magazine, and Lesley (LTB LENZ) pulled up to KOJs listening party for his new EP ‘Villain with a conscience’ in the Lost art shop on Brick street. People were locked in, listening to the bars and taking it in properly. That type of reception says a lot, and its a sign that the city’s finally locking in with in its own.
Big love to everyone supporting the scene- this is just the beginning. Ill be covering more events, more artists, and more moments that deserve the shine. For extras, updates and behind the scene bits, tap in with me on instagram: @4matt.tv
