Kenya's own Shrap God, Boutross, takes a groundbreaking step with the debut of his album, "Mtindo," a significant milestone in his musical journey. This extensive 20-track release displays his versatility and ambition, weaving Shrap influences into a dynamic sonic tapestry. Tracks like "Nyash," "Mannerless," "Huwezi," and the lead single "Misbehavior" unveil a diverse range of sounds. Following the success of his previous EP, "Mawingu," which featured the viral hit "Angela" with Juice Mann, "Mtindo" introduces a more versatile and experimental side of Boutross. Departing from his predominantly Hip-Hop past, this album explores genres like Afrobeats, Reggaeton, Gengetone, Dancehall, and Ragga, catering to various musical tastes.
Tracks such as "Intro," "Blocks Hot," and "Formula 1" showcase Boutross's impressive lyrical skills, while "Mannerless" and "Bad Habits" highlight his knack for crafting infectious hooks. "Nyash" celebrates positive vibes with a playful nod to slim guys, while "Baby Love" offers a fresh perspective on dancehall, referencing H_Art The Band's hit song of the same name. Similarly, "Dera" pays homage to the Kenyan classic "Kamata Dem" by Pilipili. Beyond sampling older tunes, Boutross incorporates elements from viral trends, including the "Ni nini ladies?" meme and terms associated with Kenyan TikTok users.
Collaborations form a significant part of "Mtindo," adding diversity to the project. Boutross collaborates with a stellar lineup of Kenyan artists such as H_Art The Band, Fena Gitu, Khaligraph, Timmy Blanco, Savara, and Fathermoh, alongside international acts like Joshua Baraka, OGD NSG, Ice Prince, and Backroad Gee. Each collaboration brings a unique flavor, ranging from hardcore rap in "Blocks Hot" to the Afrobeat-infused love song "Fire." "Mtindo" reflects Boutross's artistic evolution as he breaks free from the constraints of Shrap, exploring a spectrum of musical territories, and showcasing his boundless creativity. The album is now available on all streaming platforms.