Sound of Rum: Love from London

The unapologetic lyrics that tumble from the lips of Kate Tempest stir the feeling that each word is chosen with an unrelenting attention. Her story, delivered in a somehow restless yet soothing manner, orchestrates a blank stare at the wall from the listener concentrating on what she has to say.

Created in 2008 by Tempest, guitarist Archie Marsh and drummer Ferry Lawrenson, Sound of Rum released their first album “Balance” this year. Their single “Best Intentions“, released in July, presents Tempest winding through her lyrics carried by a blanket of guitar and drums.

Hailed as “annoyingly good” by Scroobius Pip, Sound of Rum elucidates what British rap is looking for: something a bit different. Any girl who can rap is already pretty impressive in my eyes, but someone who can immediately create the will to listen to what she has to say should be given (in true English style) a round of applause.

— Izzy Laurence

(Love From London is an ongoing series where correspondents Alex Kenning and Izzy Lawrence introduce us to bands generating excitement across the pond.)