Brasse Vannie Kaap

Afrikaans is supposed to be the language of the oppressor. Does that mean Italian is the language of the fascist and English the tongue of the colonist imperialists? All languages are gifts of communication that too often get misused and abused for selfish aims, and its true intention of relaying information and spreading knowledge becomes clouded. Yet in a country with a colorful and turbulent history, as well as a fluctuating vision of hope and reconciliation, a group from the Cape Flats have created something that can knock down barriers and open eyes.

Brasse Vannie Kaap have contributed an ever-expanding chapter to this history book of ours that cannot be erased. Dramatic? Not really. Just a fact. Composed of Prophets of da City key member and SA DJ Champion Ready D, and the large of statue, long of breath and big on rhyme Mr. Fat, together with three break-dancers and Ready D also doubling a the DJ, BVK is a quintessential kaleidoscope of characters that portray with conviction a mix of issues and peculiarities that is very Cape Flats. It takes an absorbing look at local trends and issues and utilizes an effective mix of street slang and powerful hip-hop breaks to bring home the message.

BVKs first album, which was self-titled, set a precedent for the local hip-hop and features guest appearances by the late Mr. Devious, DLow, and Garth. The album also features a reworked Breyton Breytonbachs Gedagtes van Gedigte. It was a very refreshing departure from the watered-down attempts at impersonating the U.S. MCs.

The second album, Yskoud, gave them their international recognition. On Yskoud, BVK tackle South African issues. Fans can giggle when the MCs rap about Potjiekois or relaxing on the Cape Flats. Their serious side comes out on songs dealing with child abuse and wife battery. All songs have a poetry style that is perfectly unique to South Africa.

Musically, Yskoud is a diverse album with samples such as the boere concertina and beats ranging from rock to big beat to reworked "Kaapse Klopse."

BVK's Super Power features tracks from the previous albums plus new tracks like the rework of the "7de laan" opening sequence music. —Courtesy Calabash Music