Balming Tiger - “LOOP?”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 9

Pairs Well With…BROCKHAMPTON, Jay Park, Odd Future

Korean hip-hop collective Balming Tiger blast genre expectations across their introductory group singles, indie rap and eclectic K-Pop finding communal space in a fun and interesting sonic stew. Rappers and vocalists Omega Sapien, Mudd the Student, Sogumm, and Wnjn are joined by producers San Yawn, DJ Abyss, Jan’Qui, Henson, and Leesuho (many of whom are also performing their own SXSW solo sets this year) to form Balming Tiger, a bastion of collaboration that is expectedly diversified given each artist’s unique lane. In terms of proper Balming Tiger tracks, the band shifts from full-on funk (“JUST FUN!”) to industrial trap (“I’m Sick”, “LOOP?”) to old-school rap conversation (“Armadillo”), morphing within their tracks as well without experiencing fusion overload. Bilingual, but mostly in English, Balming Tiger are armed with international appeal and overflowing with creativity - the power of a collective really comes through in Balming Tiger’s excitable, emerging catalog. (Kevin McStravick)