★★★
Sydney-based MC Tuka has long established himself as a wordsmith to be reckoned with. As one-third of hip hop outfit Thundamentals and with two solo records already under his belt, Tuka emerges on this album as a hip hop emperor in new clothes.
Life Death Time Eternal marks a cornerstone in the career of this whip-fast rapper. All those cheeky, whimsy and poppy hooks you’ve come to know and love are still scattered throughout the record.
‘Right By You’ is a lively, radio-ready gem that just doesn’t quit. Single ‘Nirvana’ is a languid shoegazer, gentle, and just goes to show how much Tuka has diversified himself.
The aural palette Tuka dips into is bolder, darker and has matured considerably from past offerings. Check out sexy slow jam ‘Don’t Wait Up’ for a hip-grinding good time, while ‘Tattoo’ shows off the lyrical style Tuka has only continued to hone over the years.
While he’s not completely abandoned the style that launched him to the forefront, and he’s taken cues from his contemporaries, Tuka’s new costume is certainly fitting for this rapper on the rise.
