‘Amongst The Pigeons’: A deliberate act of defiance

Review by Sivu Genu

Photography by Vuyo Polson

In a world where neutrality & indifference is a default setting - it is incredibly refreshing when you get the pleasure of interacting with veracity. Not in the sense that the message is some all encompassing truth based on fact but in the sense that the message comes from an authentic place.

A place devoid of performance.

As the velvet wash of the saxophone wraps you in a blanket of sound in the introductory track - the “Resistance, Renaissance Supporter” delivers pungent lines that demand our attention.

“Way too many buy into fake endorsements, I can’t blame you. You just want to feel supported.”

Amongst the Pigeons establishes itself as not just any other rap project - but as a deliberate act of defiance. In an industry where your soul can be cashed in for an opportunity at a life of opulence & where integrity is bartered & traded for a life of luxury - it is commendable to witness an artist stay true to their art & themselves.

Permi Kwaali’s production DNA is reminiscent of Alchemist favourites like Kendrick Lamar’s “FEAR”, Domo Genesis’ “Elimination Chamber” & Action Bronson’s “Tear Away Shorts”.

He provides a tonal character that is intrinsically Hip Hop. It's a masterclass in how a producer creates a sonic landscape that provides soil so rich that it not only helps the artist’s lyrical ideas land, but also helps them sprout & flourish.

There’s a great deal of honesty plastered all over this project. A wonderful departure from today’s vapid & superficial offerings - Amongst The Pigeons tackles feelings of vulnerability, longing for success, trust & deceit.

“This feeling I can’t deny, I felt it at 17. When peeling back all the lies, the truth was unsettling.”

But what is truly special about this project is Jarry Pitboi’s vocal & lyrical performance which is what gives his music a truly South African & generally special audio signature.

Jarry has a cadence that evokes speech making & gravitas & what is even more special is that it’s not lost when he decides to lean into his more vulnerable side. His sermonic rhythm feels like he merged the authority of a politician with the raw soul of a Hip Hop savant.

As this sonic journey comes to a close - my observation of Jarry Pitboi as Hip Hop’s orator are vindicated.

“I hope that for the sake of everyone that you’re not second guessing anything you do. I’m offended if you move with some hesitation. Thin line between patience & wasting time. So everyday I’m going anxious & I’d hate to find another example of ‘Oh I didn’t try hard enough.’”

A sentiment that I am certain is not only directed to us as the audience but that’s also a message to himself. As the project comes to a close - I find myself reminded as to why I fell in love with spoken word & Hip Hop. This is a true representation of the human condition.

Amongst The Pigeons isn’t just music to listen to - it’s a sonic journal that carries a profound statement. We leave this very expressive sermon with a reminder that art that’s crafted from an authentic place works as a reflection of the human spirit.

So to Jarry Pitboi & Permi Kwaali - even though there may be two of you, I now understand why they call each of you “One of One”.