Irish psychedelic hip-hop group Shakalak have released their new single, Chipper, and confirmed details of their second album, Kulture Bikki, which is due for release on 7 August.
The track arrives ahead of what is set to be a busy summer for the band, who have built a loyal following through their blend of hip-hop, electronic music, psychedelia and spoken-word storytelling.
Described by the group as a light-hearted tribute to Ireland’s chipper culture, Chipper celebrates the familiar ritual of visiting a local takeaway, whether during the day or after a night out. The song combines humour with everyday observations, focusing on the people and places that form part of daily life.
Shakalak frontman and poet John Cummins said the song began life as a poem before being reworked into a band recording.
“Chipper is an old poem that has found a new home as a Shakalak track,” he said. “It holds warm memories and it makes me smile to think back. The first verse is lunch o’clock, the second verse is night. Same chipper, twice in the same day – don’t judge me, alright?! With my daughter for verse one – my sisters for verse two. Then went home and wrote the poem – that’s what poets do…”
Musically, Chipper blends spoken-word and rap vocals with funk-influenced rhythms, brass instrumentation and electronic elements. The track also draws on influences from new wave, drum and bass and jazz.
Formed in Ireland, Shakalak have developed a reputation for energetic live performances. Their sound combines live electronic beats, synthesisers, psychedelic guitar and saxophone with Cummins’ distinctive lyrical style.
The band have previously headlined sold-out shows at venues including Whelan’s, The Workman’s Club, The Grand Social and Button Factory in Dublin, while also appearing at festivals and venues across the country.
The release of Chipper offers an early preview of Kulture Bikki, the band’s second full-length album and the follow-up to their debut record.
Shakalak are also set to appear at Beyond The Pale Festival, where they will perform on 14 June.