Embracing Resilience and Redefining Indigenous Rap: A Review of Snotty Nose Rez Kids’ ‘I’m Good HBU?

Since their debut in 2017, Snotty Nose Rez Kids have been a force to be reckoned with in the Canadian indigenous rap scene. Last year, Darren “Young D” Metz and Quinton “Yung Trybez” Nyce unleashed their fifth full-length album, ‘I’m Good, HBU?’, following their emotionally charged release, ‘Life After,’ which explored the hardships of the Covid-19 pandemic, contemplating loss, substance use, depression, and even the discovery of mass graves at residential schools. Now, as the world begins to open up after the pandemic, the duo reflects on emerging from darkness in this enthralling musical journey.

Opening the album isthe skit ‘Rez kids (into),’ the album kicks off with a playful radio DJ introducing them as “snotty rose Rez kids” before finally getting it right as “snotty nose Rez kids.” Then The first track, ‘I’M GOOD,’ immediately grabs the listener’s attention, with Young D and Yung Trybez delivering captivating bars like “And I usually don’t do this, but today I bought some jewelry/ She asked me how I’m paying and I told her ass to Google me.” This bold and confident tone sets the stage for what’s to come.

Another track TRENDSETTER (ft. DillanPonders)’ emerges as one of the standout tracks of the album leaving listeners hitting repeat repeatedly with Its infectious energy and captivating flow make it an instant favorite.

another track HOT PLANET,’ also accompanied by a visually stunning music video, further solidifies the duo’s talent in crafting killer songs and PAINT THE TOWN RED’ transforms the album into a dance mode, offering a favorite lyric “holy fok you’re deadly” that perfectly captures the excitement it exudes

Meanwhile, ‘DAMN RIGHT’ not only stands out as another fan-favorite but also clinched the 2023 Prism Prize, boasting a visually stunning music video that pays homage to the iconic legacy of the Beatles.

As the album concludes with the skit ‘IT’S S.N.R.K. BRO (OUTRO),’ a devoted fan named Jarvis humorously requests their hit ‘SKODEN,’ while the radio DJ affectionately refers to them as “SNARKS,” a sign of their increasing popularity

In conclusion, ‘I’m Good, HBU?’ is an exceptional follow-up to ‘Life After,’ showcasing Snotty Nose Rez Kids’ growth and prowess as musicians. The album is an enthralling mix of fun and impactful tracks, leaving no room for filler. As they work on their ambitious next project, ‘Red Future,’ and embark on a summer tour, fans eagerly await their return to Newfoundland ( they been here in 2022 hopefully they will be back ) but In the meantime, listeners can revel in the joy of witnessing the duo let loose and bask in their well-deserved success. ‘I’m Good, HBU?’ is a musical journey worth taking, and it reaffirms Snotty Nose Rez Kids’ status as trailblazers in the Canadian indigenous rap scene.