Fortune and Fame

In the four years since Downsyde's last release: New Orleans has been hit by a monstrous hurricane, Madeleine McCann has gone missing in Portugal, Russia has invaded neighbouring Georgia and the entire music industry has been turned upside-down. Coincidence? Perhaps not. Over this period, the anticipation for a new Downsyde track has remained so consistent that it is now used as the official worldwide benchmark for the scale of anticipation. Well – the wait is finally over – so put on your party hat and rip out the streamers because they've knocked the ball out of the park once again.

Fortune & Fame is the first single off Downsyde's upcoming fourth album, All City (out October 4). The song's blaring horns and brain-thumping drum-kicks make this an instantly recognisable signature piece from the revered crew. The track is headlined by an incredible hook courtesy of international man of mystery, Howling John Stone, and laced with the magnetic charisma and social commentary that has helped make Downsyde such an impeccable unit.

This is one destined to be put alongside previous legendary Downsyde singles like El Questro, Gifted Life and Les Fortunate as yet another local hip-hop classic from the acclaimed clique.

It is just so fitting that Downsyde's sizzling new gem comes just as winter begins to fade away and we head towards the beautiful, long hot summer months. It is not humanly possible to find a group more appropriate to supply the soundtrack to celebrate the start of the party season.

For the time being the fortune might be debatable, but the fame was achieved a long, long time ago.