The Four Owls HHV Records 2 Items

A passion for poetry

The British hip hop group The Four Owls emerged from the lively underground rap scene and has left a lasting mark on the British hip hop landscape. The group, consisting of MC’s Leaf Dog, BVA, Verb T and Fliptrix, came together in the mid-2000s, with each member bringing a unique style and lyrical ability to the table. The individual members of The Four Owls had already made a splash on the UK hip hop scene. Leaf Dog, an experienced producer, had produced beats for various artists, while BVA, Verb T and Fliptrix had gained recognition with their solo projects. The formation of the group was a natural progression, an amalgamation of like-minded artists fuelled by a shared passion for lyricism and authentic hip hop. In 2011, The Four Owls released their debut album Nature’s Greatest Mystery. This project marked a significant moment in British hip hop and showcased the group’s ability to seamlessly blend thought-provoking lyrics with beats that paid homage to the genre’s golden era. The album resonated with fans and critics alike and established The Four Owls as a force to be reckoned with.

Raw and honest

The song Life in the Balance is an example of the narrative depth of the group. Each member brought a unique perspective to the song, which dealt with personal struggles, societal issues and the pursuit of self-knowledge. The synergy between their verses and Leaf Dog’s production showed a collective chemistry that set them apart. The Four Owls did not rest on their laurels. They continued to evolve, both as individuals and as a group. In 2015, they released Natural Order, an album that further cemented their position in the UK hip hop scene. The project featured a more refined sound and production that showcased Leaf Dog’s development as a beatmaker. The first single, Think Twice, demonstrated her lyrical skill and ability to address social issues. The track’s success lay not only in its critical acclaim, but also in its impact on listeners, who found solace and inspiration in the group’s raw and honest storytelling. Their third studio album Nocturnal Instinct, released in 2020, represents a culmination of their artistic journey and showcases their maturity and versatility as storytellers and lyricists. The album opens with the electrifying Sound the Alarm featuring Smellington Piff, which sets the stage for a captivating journey through the Owls’ world of introspection and storytelling. Tracks such as Pioneer (featuring the legendary Kool G Rap) and 100% (featuring DJ Premier) showcase the group’s ability to blend classic hip hop elements with their own style.

Influence on British hip hop

The Four Owls played a crucial role in the revitalisation of British hip hop. At a time when the genre was faced with a complex identity, they offered a nod to the genre’s roots while pushing the boundaries with a contemporary sound. Their emphasis on lyricism and storytelling helped to change the perception of British rap, challenging stereotypes and reaffirming the scene’s legitimacy on the global stage. Furthermore, The Four Owls’ success paved the way for other independent artists, demonstrating that authenticity and commitment to craft can lead to recognition without jeopardising artistic integrity. Their influence reached beyond their own music and inspired a new generation of musicians who placed more emphasis on substance in their rhymes. Subsequent projects, including solo projects by individual members, underscored the Four Owls’ commitment to their craft. The group’s legacy lies not only in their discography, but also in the lasting impact they have had on the UK hip hop community. Their influence can be heard in the verses of aspiring artists who have embraced the art of storytelling and intricate wordplay.