The latest from Loyle Carner continues in a narrative, self-reflective vein as the rapper continues to establish himself as one of the most vital and considered voices in British music. Now a father, Carner’s focus shifts to his own cultural roots, his mixed racial heritage, and the rebuilding of a relationship with his formerly estranged father.

As with previous releases, Carner’s rich lyricism finds his narrator considering what he puts ito these topics as much as he focuses on what he takes out. This balance comes together most impactfully on ‘Polyfilla’ as he draws the threads weaved throughout ‘hugo’ into one track before taking the assemblage of these self- learned lessons to inform closer ‘HGU’.

A personal and diaristic album, ‘hugo’ shows Loyle Carner is as considered as ever.