Roots Manuva

Roots Manuva is an extraordinary lyricist with rare gravity; to see him try to perform through what appears to be a serious personal crisis is a deeply affecting sight

Tonight’s sold out show is testament to the kind of status enjoyed these days by Rodney Smith aka Roots Manuva. Last year’s LP ‘Bleeds’ is arguably his most challenging to date, both musically and lyrically, yet it’s this need to redraw his own boundaries with each record that’s enabled him to transcend the l

The eccentric hip-hop pioneer relishes playing street philosopher and party starter while delivering some of his finest songs

This intimate launch for his sixth album Bleeds was further evidence of the offbeat approach by Roots who’s from Stockwell but ended up settling in suburban Surrey.

The elder statesman of UK rap has never been one to emulate the overblown braggadocio of our transatlantic cousins and the intimate art deco venue provides the perfect theatre to witness his wry observations up close.

Music-News caught up with him minutes after his set on the Nokia Lumia Live main stage at Tramlines Festival Sheffield.

But perhaps this is no less weird than the pink jumpsuit he was wearing last time this reviewer saw him perform.