Ryder and Skepta Embark on an Emotional Journey Over the Course of '48 Hours'
A bridge between worlds and musical generations, Skepta teams up with 19-year-old producing prodigy Ryder to release the 48 Hours EP.
The UK’s Ryder has been steadily climbing the scene, racking up views on YouTube and TikTok with his atmospheric edits. Speaking to his bubbling name, a debut EP being released via Epic UK/RCA Records and a collaboration with Skepta is no minor feat.
The two intro tracks “All Alone” and “For You” are assisted by singer-songwriter Dré Six, while the remaining three tracks are titled #skeptacore parts one, two, and three. Only consisting of old classics from the legendary multidisciplinary artist going bar for bar against himself, it’s impossible not to be lifted more and more with every sonic increment.
The project’s title speaks to how quickly the artists crafted the mystifying EP. Ryder’s one-of-one ability in audio engineering peaked Skepta's attention, who eventually invited him to his studio to record. Within 48 hours, the project was born, a testament to how flow never needs to be overthought nor over-tweaked.
When asked about the project, Ryder shares “My focus is on the emotion, how it makes the listener feel.” That intention was certainly seen through, as the final product is nothing short of awe-provoking. There’s a weight to this work, as the lyrics and melodies speak to something solemn. Stories of triumph, shedding victim mentality, and confronting tribulation all cloaked in guitar-led atmospherics that cater directly to the soul.
Beyond offering us a body of sound that could warm even the most barren, Ryder is doing humble work with 48 Hours by reintroducing Skepta to an audience that may be too young to understand his cultural significance as a rapper, grime MC, DJ, producer, designer, creative director, and label owner.
Listen to 48 Hours below:
