Live Review: Kwame shares dark video accompaniment for 'Friends'

Finishing up a massive year of releasing his EP, Lessons Learned, back in March, as well as feats like opening for Migos' Aussie tour and scoring his first #1 Hip-hop track on Triple J Unearthed, Australian artist, KWAME has dropped a striking video for his track, 'Friends'.

Released back in March, Kwame's debut EP cemented his position as a game-changer in the world of Australian hip-hop. When announcing the release, the artist commented how he aims to "make a difference in the world through music, and showcase that good music is coming out of Australia." With features from fellow Australian artists Raj Mahal and Nazuri, Lessons Learned achieved just that with raw production and switched-on songwriting.

Fast forward to now, and Kwame is set to change the game again with 'Friends'. Directed and edited by long time collaborator and photographer, Zain Ayub, the video creates an eerie sense of dread through seemingly non-sequitur shots between footage of Kwame performing. Beginning in media res with a scene of a distressed Kwame running alongside a train track as ominous electronic sounds grow, the music kicks in and we see the the artist buoyantly performing via a closeup monochrome shot. Occasional shots focus on a red car parked next to a lookout or driving down a country road. It's not until the end we Kwame forced out of the trunk of the car by two men and forced on his knees overlooking the bush - presumably to be executed.

The video is fascinating in how it plays into the tracks lyrics of facing overwhelming negativity from other people, yet contrasts with the bright and jazzy production. Visually striking yet thematically obscure, much like Kwame's music, it's something that will stick with you for some time.

Image: ZXXN

WORDS BY MAX LEWIS

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