Hence, when it was suggested that the slimster broaden his horizons by listening to a recent release, this year’s CD by Reket, Rahu, (Peace) that sterotype, prejudiced opinion kicked in. Well, he was in for a surprise. Estonian räp, as it is known there, at least in Reket’s interpretation, is nothing like the North American variety. Black and white, if you will, night and day.
Reket is the nom de musique of Tom-Olaf Urb, who is not only a musician but also a producer, writer and actor. He is a graduate of Santa Monica College and studied music production at the London University of Arts. His pedigree almost demanded a listen – his father is Toomas Urb, one half of the wonderful duo Vennad Urbid (Brothers Urb). Toomas and Tarmo Urb released in 1980 a gem of an album, Imeline aas (what a meadow) that was very frequently on the slender one’s turntable. That record has, alas, gone AWOL. Should not lend stuff without writing it down…
Tom-Olaf’s father and uncle sang and played what could be called esto folk. As Reket, it is the lean one’s opinion that the son, nephew has created a category of his own. First off, the lyrics are worth listening to. Truly. Secondly, many of the cuts on this CD are really not rap – the only common denominator is the fast-paced electronic accompaniment, sans booty-shaking bass. It is never offensive, as Tupac was. Or grating like Ice T, Snoop Dogg. Nor attempting to fit in like the over hyped Eminem. Reket stands out in comparison thanks to his civilized, witty way with words – a great example is Rahvalaul (Folk song) where the fast-paced verbal barrage makes one smile. Or Paprika, which is simply a fun listen.
Consideration should also be given to the other hit on the recording, Külm ja raske (Cold and heavy). This a blend of the two styles, switching from rapid-fire vocals to a gentler introspective of how time passes in minutes, hours while contemplating what is work. Poetic, unlike most rappers.
The electronic backing music is provided by Aleksander Sannik and Otto Suits. Sander Mölder, who performed his composition at the recent Estonian Music Week’s opening concert with Avarus, and also DJed at the Estos Rock show at Lee’s Palace supported Reket on two cuts, one with Siim Avango, the other, Külm ja raske with Eero Muiste. No instruments are identified, simply music credits. Recorded and mixed by Bert Prikenfeld, the quality is excellent, allowing the listener to focus on the important lyrics.
The only other Esto räppar the slimster is aware of is Chalice, (Jarek Kasar), for his composition Minu inimesed (My people), featured at the youth song festival Ilmapuu (World tree) in Estonia 11 years ago.
Both Chalice and Reket are in their 30’s, curiously born a day apart in April, two years separating them. One would certainly not expect educated musicians of that age to dabble in rap. But as Rahu convincingly demonstrates, preconceptions should be brushed under the rug, and original musical excursions such as Reket’s be given a most deserved listening.