ARZ TURNS UP THE HEAT IN GRIME-INSPIRED SINGLE, ‘HOSTAGE’

Matt Sharp
May 10, 2024
2 min read

Following on from recent release, ‘Long Time No See’, Arz returns with ‘Hostage’. This marks a shift in style from what we’re used to hearing from the London-rapper, with an increased tempo and grime characteristics providing an exciting development in his sound.

The heavily in-demand Oakland takes up production duties, providing his winning blend of chopped-up samples and skippy drums. Lyrically, Arz details the intricacies of a relationship with a love interest. This combination of Arz’ loved fuelled lyrics and Oakland’s mellow grime production is a brilliant pairing. Taken from his upcoming mixtape, Arz is beginning to turn up the heat and showcase his versatility.

Speaking on the track, Arz expressed, “Hostage is probably one of my favs on the tape just for the fact it’s so new. I feel like I’ve never dropped anything on a heavily grime influenced beat. The beat is ridiculous. My guy Oakland is prolific in making these jumpy UK bangers. This track will undoubtedly have you skanking and holding back tears at the same time LOL. I shot this video on my New York trip in January way in advance just because we really knew it would be a supporter’s favourite. I love dipping in and out of vocal samples that move the heart & this one is extremely special.”

As mentioned, the track arrives with a visual accompaniment that was filmed on a recent trip to New York. During this time Arz featured on popular NYC-based platform On The Radar Radio for a freestyle that was met with widespread support. Having built up a strong following in the UK capital, Arz seems poised to solidify that, as well as showcasing his talents further afield.

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