Peckham’s Omo Frenchie has returned with a new sound for 2019.. Taking inspiration from French artist MHD’s ‘Afro Trap’, he has taken elements from both Drill and Afrobeats (instrumentation, flow and beats) to create a new sound ‘Afro Drill’.
Premiering on Kenny Allstar’s BBC 1Xtra show, the track also comes equipped with an vibrant music video (directed by Defenders Ent) which further pushes the Drill x Afrobeats crossover, where local street backdrops are littered with troop style Afrobeats dance routines.
With UK Drill being vilified by the UK government and in certain sections of the media at present (which has led to the banning of videos, live events and music), ‘Afro Drill’ acts as somewhat of a celebration of both scenes as Frenchie’s approach is to use Drill as a positive force, both through the lyrics and also by utilising the irresistible dance element of Afrobeats. He explains:
“Afro Drill was designed to bring a more fun to drill music and remove any talk of gang or violent influence”
The track switches between half time straight up Drill, then steps up to full blown Afrobeats in the choruses, whilst skilfully remaining at the same tempo throughout. The Congo-born artist’s heritage is on show as the track boasts a 16 from Frenchie in French (something not may UK artists can flex.)
Be sure to check out the full video for his latest offering down below.
