North London grime specialist Capo Lee has never been one to stay in his lane. Over the last decade, the MC has built a reputation as one of the scene’s most versatile barrers, equally comfortable shelling down a grime set as he is jumping on something a bit more leftfield. For his latest drop, “What’s Wrong?”, Capo Lee links up with Coventry powerhouse Pa Salieu for a dark, off-kilter cut that finds both artists firmly in their element. Underpinned by skittering electronics, Afro-influenced percussion and a menacing low-end, “What’s Wrong?” is an uneasy listen, but in the best possible way.
Capo uses his time on the track to reflect on the realities of street life before music became his main focus, delivering his bars with the sort of conviction that has made him a respected name in grime and rap circles. Pa Salieu, meanwhile, raises the stakes with a fiery guest verse that takes the track’s restless energy up a notch. Having traded bars with grime heavyweights such as D Double E, Jme, Frisco and P Money, and worked with experimental producers like IZCO, Ahadadream, p-rallel and BAKEY, Capo has spent recent years exploring the spaces between grime, UK funky, garage and club music.
Here is an MC who refuses to be boxed in. “I think ‘What’s Wrong?’ is a good example of how much I enjoy experimenting with music and sound,” Capo tells Complex UK. “I love pushing my boundaries and trying new things, especially with collaborations. I’ve always wanted to work with Pa and this seemed like the perfect song; it all happened organically.”
Directed by Reece Selvadorai, the accompanying visuals set the tone for Capo’s forthcoming Inner City Dilemmas project, pairing slick, editorial-style imagery with high-energy performance shots. “With Afroswing influences running throughout, the visual brings together rhythm, culture and attitude, giving Capo the space to establish his identity while Pa Salieu adds another layer of energy,” says Selvadorai. “Ultimately, my aim was to create more than just a music video.”
Peep the mini movie exclusively above.
