Joe Blow - Smoke on the Water (EP) + 10 Questions
Joe Blow has truly outdone himself with his latest EP, "Smoke on the Water." This six-track project, produced by Cardiff hip-hop legend Ackobeatzuk, is a testament to Joe's prolific nature and his undeniable impact on the UK hip-hop scene. Since his recent resurgence, he has been a force to be reckoned with, and this EP only cements that status further.
From the moment you hit play, you’re greeted with a seamless blend of clever, witty wordplay and smooth lyrical flow that perfectly complements Ackobeatzuk's masterful production. The beats are rich and layered, drawing inspiration from an eclectic mix of 70s soul and 60s rock and psychedelic sounds. This unique sampling adds a nostalgic yet fresh vibe to the tracks, making each listen an engaging experience.
Joe's ability to weave intricate narratives with his lyrics is impressive. He balances humor and depth, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Whether he’s reflecting on personal experiences or tackling broader themes, his cadence and delivery keep you hooked from start to finish.
Released under Veteran Records, a label that’s quickly gaining notoriety, "Smoke on the Water" is a significant contribution to the Welsh hip-hop landscape. Joe is helping to put Wales firmly on the map, and this EP is a shining example of the talent emerging from the region.
"Smoke on the Water" is a must-listen for hip-hop enthusiasts and newcomers a like. Don’t miss out on this incredible project!
Joe Blow sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
I owe those accolades to my mother and my older brother. When I was a baby my mum would put the radio under my pram when I was crying and it would stop me screaming, and I would fall asleep.
As i got older probably about 4 or 5 years old I would go through my brothers record collection and play them on his record player whilst he was out. I did this for years until my mum got me my own turntable. I started collecting my own records but I would still go through my brothers records all the time, and came across a Run Dmc 12 inch “My Adidas”. That moment changed my life, I was instantly hooked, from the style of clothes they were wearing on the cover to the actual sound of the music, it just spoke to me.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
That’s a tough one because i’ve been influenced by so many people over the years. Everyone from Ice T to Wu Tang Clan and beyond. I love everything that A Tribe Called Quest has done. Ive been a fan since the beginning of their journey. What I would do to get on a Q-Tip beat.
I also love Action Bronson he is one of my favourite artists, his stuff with Alchemist is incredible. I would love to collaborate with those guys.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
I’ve Just dropped a New 6 track EP called “Smoke on the Water” On Veteran Records with Ackobeatzuk, out exclusively on Bandcamp for a couple of weeks before it drops on all the usual streaming platforms. I like to give all my loyal Bandcamp followers the chance to grab my music before anyone else can. The support i’ve had over the years has been insane and for that I will always be eternally grateful.
Im also about 8 tracks deep into an album with the king of Cardiff hip hop; DJ Jaffa. Im hoping to get that released later on this year.
4. How would you describe your sound?
Without sounding like an old hip hop purist who hates everything that isn’t boombap, I would say it draws from the traditional sounding rap from the 90’s with a sprinkle of all the music that I grew up listening to thrown into a big melting pot. Old funk, rock, soul and jazz records are never too far away from the MPC, ready to get sampled. I also make DnB/jungle so you never know exactly what to expect from me. I think the world would be a very boring place if you just listened to or made one style of music. Variety is the spice of life as they say.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
When I got my first wax out in the shops back in 2005 on Dial Up Records, I was like a kid at Christmas, I couldn’t contain my excitement.
DJ Stagga & Monkey made my dreams come true. When they signed me, I learned a lot from my time with them and it certainly helped pave the way for me to start my own label once I knew how it all worked behind the scenes. I owe a lot to them guys. Stagga was like Family to me and I miss him dreadfully. That’s why I try to live my life to the fullest every day because you never know when your numbers going to be up, R.I.P. Stagga.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
Fuck what anyone else says and just do it for you because you love it, not for any other reason. If you’re doing it for fame and money then you’re definitely doing it for the wrong reasons.
I’ve seen so many people come and go because they didn’t get where they wanted to be and got disheartened. I literally make music for myself and because I love doing it. I couldn’t give a fuck who likes it or not. Having this attitude makes me feel free and helps me stay creative when i’m making new music.
7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?
My Bro Ral Duke is putting out some insane music lately. His stuff he produced with “Mickey Diamond” Oroku Saki is legendary and deserves to be heard by everyone.
Gwonsun is another artist who is releasing dope shit right now go and listen to his song “Smell Ew” I played that track on loop for weeks, loved it.
Shouts to my brothers 4Dee and Joe Dirt too both those guys have dropped really strong solo projects this last year that also deserve to be heard.
I’m loving Frankie Pulitzer he’s putting out some fire right now. I work in Film and TV as my Day job, and I was working on the set of Tom Hardy’s film “Havoc”. When Tom came out of his trailer to the food area and greeted everyone, “good morning Frankie Pulitzer “ I said, he didn’t reply, he either decided to blank me or didn’t hear me. I definitely think he chose to ignore me for exposing him.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Onyx’s new album “Lower East Side“ is incredible.
Absolutely loved LL Cool J’s album “The Force” i’ve played that to death. Q-Tip’s production is second to none and Cool J always delivers too.
Redman’s new album Muddy Waters too is sick as well.
It’s great to have the older statesman of hip hop dropping gems like they have been lately, I believe it smashes down the silly ideologies that rap is only for the young cats.
All the best rappers are 40 and older, and thats not being biased because i’m in that age bracket its just a matter of fact.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
Smoking weed has to be my favourite pastime, whilst listening to music and just chilling out in peace. A lot of people are so judgemental of that still in this day and age but now i’m in receipt of medical cannabis on script from my doctor, so i’m quick to pull out my cancard and tell people to do one, ”I’m medicating leave me alone“.
I’m a family man too so any chance I get to spend with my children is always grabbed with both hands.
Family is very important to me and I try to be the best father I can be to my kids.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
1. Weed
2. Ribena
3. MPC One.