‘LUZ’ is pensive and thought provoking

Namibian rapper Rafa Luz’s latest project, ‘LUZ’ is a breath of fresh air for the Namibian hip-hop scene.

Released on 7 September, the 10-track album is not just another rap project, it feels like a carefully crafted experience that is both introspective and experimental, pushing the boundaries of the genre in a way that’s both familiar and fresh.

Rafa (28) is a jack-of-all-trades, having written, produced, recorded, mixed and mastered every track himself. There’s one feature, by Maya Blandy, who adds a catchy hook on ‘I Want Your Love’.

Rafa’s sound in ‘LUZ’ is an eclectic mix of genres, with influences from jazz, Afro beats, indie rock, Lofi and even some techno elements. This makes the album feel like something you’d hear at an underground hip-hop café or during a laid-back cypher session. It has a tenderness often lacking in modern hip-hop.

Right off the bat, with the opening track ‘Check to Cheque’, it feels like you’re listening to someone process their life in real-time. It’s smooth, laid-back and relatable.

Then there’s ‘Arthritis’, also a standout for its witty and sharp wordplay. Much of the ensemble feels like it is teetering between deep personal reflection and a lighthearted love for the craft of music.

Having relocated to Portugal two years ago, Rafa has high hopes for the future of his career, and the impact he can make at home and abroad.

“The music scene [here] is vibrant, [there are] lots of talented people, but not much hip-hop,” he says.

This hasn’t stopped him from taking several stages in his new home, including Summer Opening and Algazarra, and it also hasn’t caused him to shy away from considering himself a top hip-hop artist in both of his homes.

Rafa isn’t only about the music though. He’s also diving into acting, having starred in a short web film, ‘Stranded’, and the series, ‘Predators and Prey’, slated for release early next year.

For someone who describes himself as an introvert, Rafa is clearly comfortable exploring new creative outlets, whether in music or on screen. His love for anime, reading, football, hiking and animals further complements his personality, painting a picture of an artist who is deeply reflective and passionate about everything he does.

As for what’s next, Rafa is already working on a new EP, ‘Amor Fati’, out in early December.

This time, he promises a project that leans even more into his rap roots – something that will be more stripped-down and raw. It’ll be interesting to see how the two compare, and how his new life influences his sound.

– Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer and social commentator. Follow her online or email her at annehambuda@gmail.com for more.