‘Where They At’, the new single from Snotty Nose Rez Kids (SNRK), is equal parts creative flex and moment of optimism for artists and fans alike. A fired up collaboration with fellow First Nations rapper Drezus, the single is a powerful glimpse into the wealth of talent creating music in this specific area of the globe.
The single that shines light on success regardless of obstacles and negative energy, ‘Where They At’ is SNRK and Drezus proudly stepping forward and letting people know that despite 2020 forcing a pause on normal life, they’re powering on through.
Recorded at Nova Studios in Vancouver, SNRK and Drezus each bring distinctive flow and presence to ‘Where They At’. Trap beats meet reflective lyricism, delivered straight up with wordplay and quick wit both well in effect. A song inspired by their journey as a duo and the effects – positive and negative – change can bring, ‘Where They At’ is definitive of SNRK; their energy and approach to music and life.
“A lot has changed in our lives over the years. At the end of the day, we do our best to keep our heads high and keep moving forward. ‘Where They At’ was inspired by just experiencing life. We’re letting you know we’re doing alright through all the madness.” Yung Trybez, SNRK
Working with a talented crew of animators and illustrators, SNRK paired the immersive vibe of ‘Where They At’ with a fitting visualiser. Characters designed by Shayla Duval, edited and animated by Anthony Craparotta, with illustrations by Storm La Bass, Darren Dunn and Jess Robert, the ‘Where They At’ clip is a feel-good moment where the viewer can see SNRK and Drezus cruising in animated form.
“The video shows SNRK and Drezus rolling through our old neighbourhood and on the open road. The dog next to me is actually my dog, Chauncey, who died recently. He was a real mascot for SNRK and featured on our first album cover art and has appeared in our music videos. You can hear him barking at the start of our song, ‘Aliens vs. Indians’.”
Yung Trybez, SNRK
Drezus has been a known and respected artist in the Canadian First Nations scene for over a decade. Part of both the Muskowekwan and Cote First Nations peoples, and born in Saskatoon, the rapper has brought together the traditional narratives and stories of his people with fresh sonic influences. For SNRK and Drezus to collaborate on a track like ‘Where They At’, it was a no brainer.
“Drezus is experimenting more with his musical direction and I thought it’d be a great fit for us.”
Young D, SNRK
“‘Nishtaw’ means ‘brother-in-law’ in my language. I take these guys [SNRK] as my Nishtaws because our relationship with music brought us here. They’re fuckin’ killin’ it.”
Drezus
Prior to COVID-19 restrictions coming into play globally, SNRK were set to embark on their debut headline tour of North America in support of their latest EP Born Deadly. Having to postpone their original plans, the duo is currently working on their forthcoming new studio record, due for release in 2021.
The release of ‘Where They At’ is a timely reminder that SNRK may be chilling off-road right now but best believe when restrictions lift, fans are in for a real treat. Along with its release, SNRK are rolling out a limited edition merchandise line that fans can get their hands on at their official merch store.
The release of ‘Where They At’ is a timely reminder that SNRK may be chilling off-road right now but best believe when restrictions lift, fans are in for a real treat.
“It’s a banger. We want you to enjoy it more than anything. The ‘Where they at?’ line is tongue in cheek. We’re saying, where are the people who turned their backs, who hate online, who didn’t support us? It don’t matter ‘cos we got our braids on and we built a team of real ones. We got all we need.”
Young D, SNRK
PRAISE FOR SNOTTY NOSE REZ KIDS
“Deconstructing perceptions of First Nations people with intelligence and responsibility, hip hop duo Snotty Nose Rez Kids are at the forefront of Canada’s indigenous renaissance.”
The Line of Best Fit
“…raw truths and sharp rhymes, repping for Indigenous youth who rarely see themselves reflected in pop culture.”
Now Toronto
“Haisla Nation duo Snotty Nose Rez Kids thrive on subverting stereotypes and preserving cultural traditions. With fierce rhymes committed to the cause of decolonization, Young Trybez and Young D simultaneously nod to the contemporary hip-hop sound they employ and to environmental issues directly affecting Indigenous people.”
Complex
“Kinetic and cartoonish chemistry similar to Flatbush Zombies, as well as a bold confrontation of white supremacy with classic hip-hop tropes.”
The Fader
“…a well-produced hip-hop album that borrows influences from the likes of the Wu-Tang Clan, Kanye, Jay-Z and Childish Gambino, but in terms of the themes and lyrics, it is an album that could only come from an indigenous experience.”
Canadian Beats
‘Where They At’ is released Friday, October 23rd.
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