kenzo jae debuts his most experimental work yet on ‘mmpa’
The West Yorkshire rapper returns with a metaphoric beauty, challenging himself by leaning into singing over his usual rap-driven verses.
Photo: Kenzo Jae
Kenzo Jae has built a sound that merges R&B’s soulful allure with different strands of UK rap, a style that is evident in his latest single, mmpa.
What initially reads as a nostalgic nod to a childhood crush on the Yellow Power Ranger soon becomes a catalyst for deeper reflection, as the track unfolds into an experimental exploration of fame, substance abuse, and the pressures that force children to grow up before their time.
Cleverly written and full of riddles in metaphoric language, mmpa disguises its meaning through the lens of the Yellow Power Ranger, unpacking life’s cycles and themes of loss, addiction, love, and disillusionment with the idea of saving anyone.
Mighty Morphin reflects Kenzo Jae’s love for Power Rangers as a child — “I used to have a crush on the Yellow Power Ranger” — capturing the innocence and beauty of childhood.
Powder takes a darker turn, exploring drug use: “Go-go Powder Angel, look at the way you talk… a runny nose, loose lips and bloodshot eyes.” Angel examines idolisation and how we love and look up to people: “And now I'm in love with someone who loves drugs more than me.”
mmpa is a replayable and enticing song that draws you in, painting vivid scenes in your imagination, with the nostalgia of reminiscing about Power Rangers as an added bonus. You can really picture the journey the Power Ranger goes on as he sets the scene throughout the song.
In the theme of the Power Rangers, “Go Go Kenzo Jae”! Let’s hope the vocal-driven, considered, and nuanced vibe is here to stay, as it suits him so well. I can’t wait to see what he releases next.
mmpa is out now via Launchpad+ / EMI North.
