AUSTRALIAN hip-hop two-piece KOOLISM is back with a new album and will headline a special all- Australian show at NEWCASTLE LEAGUES CLUB on Saturday night.
Since teaming in 1992 Koolism comprising DJ DANIELSAN and MC HAU has watched the popularity of homegrown hip-hop reach new heights, particularly in the past 12 months.
Hau said he believed there were several factors attributed to the rising support of Australian hip-hop.
``They are finally taking artists like ourselves, HILLTOP HOODS and 1200 TECHNIQUES seriously and realising that we can make good hip-hop in our own country,'' Hau said.
``It has also got to do with the fact that Australians are beginning to realise that they can relate to someone that could be their next-door neighbour rhyming about John Howard rather than a guy from Brooklyn rapping about money and jewellery.'' The Canberra-based pair met through a mutual friend when Hau found himself short of somebody who could produce beats for his rhymes.
Koolism was born and the pair have been together ever since, releasing a debut album in 2002 and picking up support slots with DE LA SOUL, GRANDMASTER FLASH, and JURASSIC 5. While hip-hop has had a major influence, Hau's Tongan roots have also been incorporated into the Koolism sound through lyrics and instrumentation.
``Hip-hop has always been my first love in music but I listened to all sorts of music when I was growing up,'' Hau said.
``I liked to listen to heavy metal, reggae, the hymns being beautifully sung at our Tongan church, pop my dad listened to country in the car a lot soul, jazz and funk.' Koolism released its third album Random Thoughts Part 3 last month.
``We always try to think outside of the square when it comes to making music. Koolism is known to push the boundaries of hip-hop.
``So you know, we experiment and try new things. But we always stay true to the essence of hip-hop music and keep our positivity and mad style in the vibe.'' Koolism headline MINDSTATE: A CELEBRATION OF OZ HIP-HOP at THE BAND ROOM at Newcastle Leagues Club on Saturday along with TZU, DOWN UNDER BEATS CREW, KATO and DJ SKOOB. Advance tickets cost $20 from WILD SURF CO., THREESIXTYSOUNDS or the venue.
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