WHO SHOT SCOTT has dove headfirst into a frenzy of funk with his latest release, “BUGGIN”.
In contrast to the acidic noise-rap of “I HEAR THEM LAUGHING”, this electrifying track showcases a fitful groove with abundant guitar licks and layers of disorienting distorted vocals as the Auckland rapper grapples with themes of paranoia and cynicism.
“Paranoia and cynicism are two of the most difficult challenges I deal with,” he explains. “I often find myself distrusting of people who may pose as ‘friends’ while potentially having ulterior motives. While saying that, this song is me acknowledging that these insecurities may just be a defence mechanism that I’ve conjured up to protect myself. No one is out to get me, it’s not that big of a deal, I am indeed… Bugging.”
Whether you’ve also questioned your friends’ motives or not, “BUGGIN” demands to be cranked up in your headphones, allowing you to unleash your own pent-up emotions with a cathartic howl.
The accompanying music video, directed by WHO SHOT SCOTT’s longtime visual collaborator Connor Pritchard, vividly captures the song’s chaotic energy and sees the artist strutting through downtown Auckland, drenched in a nightmarish, lo-fi filter.
“BUGGIN” is the second single from WHO SHOT SCOTT’s upcoming EP BRAIN (Side A), the follow up to his recent EP, MERCY III, which he discussed with Rolling Stone AU/NZ earlier this year.
The rapper’s two latest singles showcase the same originality that was evident in MERCY III. “I’ve realised the only thing that will make me fit into the world is being absolutely honest and authentic to my core, that just comes with a bit of maturity I suppose,” he told Rolling Stone AU/NZ about his previous EP.
After delivering explosive performances at BIGSOUND in Brisbane last month, WHO SHOT SCOTT is now gearing up to showcase at SXSW Sydney later this month.
WHO SHOT SCOTT’s “BUGGIN” is out now.
