A recurring motif anchors rapper Tyson Sybateli’s long-awaited mixtape, Present – one that feels packed with nuanced connotations. Living up to the expectations of its predecessor, HOME, Tyson’s latest offering is an unvarnished peek into his inner life that ties straightforward rap thrills directly to its narrative – with producers such as Feziek and Melange making it sound state of the art.
Since his formidable debut, Tyson Sybateli’s idiosyncratic artistry has seamlessly permeated South African Hip-Hop, both in the streets and on the charts. The muso’s ability to pack perspectives, and personify many characters and muses with distinct voices, cadences, and beat switches that bring them to life is pure mastery. These virtuosic tics are what have made him one of Mzansi rap’s most celebrated avant-garde poets and storytellers.
Tyson Sybateli | SUPPLIED
In an era where polyglot tune-smithery is the norm, Tyson, affectionately known as Bra Nyoga, seemingly takes a classicist route to rap music with record opener, “Playing With Fire”. The emcee narrates an ode of loss and triumph over a soulful beat with heartfelt lyrics such as “the last time my gran seen me was on TV/ after five years I only saw her in a box.” The intro also comprises clips from The Sobering Podcast, where the show’s hosts sing the emcee’s praises – dubbing him as one of Mzansi rap’s finest. A master at portraying different characters through his music, Bra Nyoga’s subject matter takes a braggadocios turn after an infectious beat switch. The lyricist repeatedly raps “not enough fire” – assumedly referring to his opponents’ lack of skill to challenge him.
The lower stakes of this project allow Tyson to flaunt his lyricism, while simultaneously tapping into a fun bag; the brags are less humble, and the threats are more pointed. Released upfront of Present, “No Comment” featuring Thato Saul is a masterclass in bouncing musicality with both emcees showcasing different facets of their artistry. Tyson reminds us that he can effortlessly emulate the conventional Hip-Hop banger stuff, while Thato Saul switches his flow – beating the one-trick-pony allegations made by critics. Bra Nyoga’s melodic rap capabilities are also illustrated in the mixtape’s lead single, “It Worked”, as well as “Phone-Hello” featuring Mochen and Landrose. Despite these tracks being bouncier and more palatable for the commercial Hip-Hop market, Tyson still makes fiery declarations of rap supremacy, while wrangling different personas and sonic textures from his voice.
Tyson Sybateli | SUPPLIED
Luscious harmonies and hints of psychedelic soul arise in “2-Up” featuring Nanette. The euphonious love song is a much-needed break from the mixtape’s hardcore rap ambiance and proffers a subtle, sparkling sensation. Tyson seemingly characterises the courting process with the lyrics “Anyway, babe, what you chatting?” and “You single?” On a similar wavelength, “We Outside” featuring “Breakfast in Soweto” vocalist Ben September, comprises soft harmonies that gel well with Tyson’s notably composed verses on the track.
In “I Can Bet”, Tyson and lyricist Priddy Ugly showcase an undeniable synergy, akin to the unstoppable duo of Foden and Haaland. Tyson exudes an almost sinister aura in his verse – adopting a gritty rap style, while Priddy Ugly maintains a cool demeanor. Set against vintage Hip-Hop production by sonic genius Melange, the emcees showcase a “different League of pen” by rapping about their lyrical prowess, the fickle nature of the music industry, and everything in between. With lyrics such as “Hot topic Telli First / Flow like casual burns”, Bra Nyoga’s rapping is timeless enough to step into Ice Cube’s “You Know How We Do It” Timberlands.
Tyson Sybateli | SUPPLIED
Diving deeper into boom-bap territory, mixtape outro “Pattern-Up” featuring singer Tron Prye is a tell-all-tale nested in the Mick Jenkins ethos of “The Patience”. Exploiting skillful wordplay and caustic candour, Tyson unpacks the trauma of the Black experience as refracted through his life, and the lives of his soul tribe. In the same vein, he introduces us to a parallel universe – one that is home to a charismatic Zoomer who just wants to make a living from doing what he loves.
Tyson possesses an intellect and fervor that shine through his rapping, making every song he creates captivating. Beyond its impeccable production, diverse rap styles, and remarkable features, the mixtape’s diverse subject matters are what makes it a masterpiece. Throughout Present, Tyson fearlessly raps about grief, resilience, betrayal, love, and loyalty with unfiltered directness. In a music dispensation where materialism and AI are vying for supremacy, it’s refreshing to encounter a body of work that expresses authentic and relatable storytelling.
Preview Present:
