GIBRILLAH ‘Like That’ Write-up

Cutting through the noise of postcode tension and ski-mask drillers alike, Gibrillah’s (@_gibrillah) latest track ‘Like That’ proves that sometimes turning down the tempo only turns up the energy. Alongside longtime collaborator Rellyman (@rellyman), Western Sydney artist touches on hardship and his path to success. Accompanying the track are stunning visuals from Levi Lamour (@levilamour), using a film aesthetic to bring a raw nostalgia for the single.

‘They held me back’ Lyrics from ‘Like That’ by Gibrillah (feat. Rellyman)
(Image credit: ‘Like That’ music video. Directed by Levi Lamour)

(Image supplied @Levilamour)

The track opens with Gibrillah himself, weaving his motivation, work ethic and late night studio sessions into a hard-hitting opening verse. Using the brooding beat to propel his own vocals, we see the artist navigate around his humble surroundings. The video jumps from a house party to the front seat of a car, using sequenced photographs in between shots to provide some variation. Keep an eye out for the ubiquitous ‘household aggie’ as well, featuring amongst the party crowd.

The chemistry between Gibrillah and Rellyman is real, flowing seamlessly from verse to hook and back again. Kudos to Domba (@dombatheproducer) on production: I felt chopped and screwed vibes from the get-go, but the way Rellyman filters and stutters in during the breakdown is incredible. His voice adds contrast to the track, providing some melodic colour while Gibrillah hits that triplet flow as he comes in with his next verse. 

Despite all the quick camera work and pastiche of images, the visuals thrive on their simplicity. Each scene has a dominant tint of colour, meaning that particular environments are given their own mood. The classic ‘Western Sydney rap’ tropes are present, but modified slightly, such as the side-bag wielding posse. Instead of standing behind Gibrillah for that intimidation factor, they interact and become part of the narrative. Even the car that is featured throughout is never used as a statement in itself, but rather as a ‘vehicle’ for the rapper to tell his story.

I hope Gibrillah forgives me for that horrible pun. If you want better wordplay go listen to ‘Like That’, and keep an eye out for that aggie.