On The Radar spotlights a new song we're loving from a fresh face.
Mustafa is having a moment unlike many new artists this year, offering up a second stellar cut Air Forces.
Those with an eye on the Toronto hip-hop scene will recognise Mustafa isn't exactly a new name. He cut his teeth in rap collective Halal Guys where he proved himself to be a potent lyricist. He's brought that same vivid imagery to his solo project.
Mustafa calls the style of Air Forces "inner-city folk music". You can hear that too. It has the narrative-based lyricism of folk while offering an unrelenting rawness.
The instrumental was built around a Sudanese tribal chant paying homage to his heritage. It was also co-produced by Jamie xx, Frank Dukes and Simon Hessman who bring a moody, affecting backdrop to the table.
The whole thing sounds gorgeous and it's only driven by Mustafa's instant artistic power. He holds such a presence which is perhaps why he's already impressed xx, Dukes and James Blake.
