Enigmatic Equiknoxx DJ brings “Gal power from the man dem”
We always take time out to check the vibes from Equiknoxx co-founders Gavin “Gavsborg” Blair and Jordan “Time Cow” Chung. Today we’re proud to premiere a brand new release from Kemikal, an enigmatic artist whom Gavsborg describes as “a lab experiment between Big Pun mixed with Tiger.” Take a moment to let that sink in. OK? Good. Part of the Equiknoxx crew since the 2010s, Kemikal has scored hits superficially with the Polish dancehall community such as “La La La” on the Jim Screechie Riddim. He also recorded cuts on classic Equiknoxx riddims such as: Kamera Trick, White Label, Wash Belly, Gypsy Time as well as collaborating with the likes of Alozade, Chico, J.O.E & T.O.K. Now that you’re up to speed, pree the brand new sup’m called “Gwaan.” Contempt for “peeping toms” and “the male gaze” might seem unlikely within dancehall, but “Gwaan” says freedom of female expression is a must. No social media body shaming round yah so! Video After The Jump…
Banton to Flava Flav punctuate performances of his own material. Scenes from one of Kingston’s many rowdy late-night dances inspired Kemikal’s “don’t watch the pum” lyric.
What began as a short skit for the film morphed into “Gwaan,” with Kemikal voicing a rhythm built
by his Equiknoxx co-conspirator Gavsborg. A musical selection custom-designed for both the ravers and the clavers, “Gwaan” is a throwback to the happy times of dancehall when “Dem Bow” rhythms met sub-folk melodies at West Kingston’s ultimate early noughties rave: Passa Passa. The tune is complemented by cut & paste cover art hand-stamped by Gavsborg. Mastered by Nik Sinha, Futureworks, Manchester UK.
Kemikal Pon Di Gram
