photography by stephanie o’connor
Sheffield-based musician Otis Mensah is one of the nuanced figures exploring the intersection of poetry and experimental music. We are happy to premiere the latest track, “bruiser bb“, a second single from the upcoming EP released via the Berlin-based label Lekker Collective. And it doesn’t disappoint. Created in collaboration with Moritz Friese, who contributed the visuals, and with an instrumental produced by the intern, the song is a mix of raw emotion and chilled vibes.
Otis describes the piece as “An ode to the Blues, I give you ‘bruiser bb’ with the bounce of a mid-2000s bop and all praise to the vast and boundless poetic of The Black Unicorn by Audre Lorde that fed me when writing this hymn. This one explores the grand processing of shame with artistic hunger, melody and chant.” The result is a tune that captures the listener with a ’00s rhythm, while diving deep into themes of shame and vulnerability through a smooth melody.
The song successfully spreads an atmosphere that feels raw and scratchy, yet somehow remains accessible — a catchy track that doesn’t get lost in its own complexity. In line with this creative philosophy, previous interviews have revealed a fascination with paradoxes and contradictions. The new track addresses heavy emotional and existential issues in a manner that invites rather than alienates the audience. And so, we invite you to enjoy the premiere below.
