Shogun x Tzusan - Lead Wetsuit Schematics (EP) + 10 Questions

“Lead Wetsuit Schematics” heralds the first in a series of collaborative projects from platinum selling Scottish rapper Shogun (as seen on BBC Three’s The Rap Game) and his contemporary MC/Producer Tzusan, who’s 2022 solo release WSPSNSYRP and subsequent UK tour earned international praise and a SAMA nomination for best hip-hop.

The project takes the form of raw, rugged, and unapologetic barring set to a backdrop of dusty sample chops and bone-rattling drums bearing Tzusan’s signature watermark. Spread across 9 tracks ranging from the self-reflective to the scathing and downright obnoxious these are two artists playing off of each other’s styles to create something dripping in ironic post-modernism and futile rebellion. Boasting guest features from some serious titans of the genre including Roll Deep royalty Manga Saint Hilare and MF Doom collaborator Sonnyjim to name a few, the EP is sure to set a new benchmark beyond Scottish rap. Alongside the release will be a series of singles, videos and visualisers made in collaboration with a plethora of talent across the country and an episodic podcast in development to be released via Patreon featuring exclusive content, comedy skits, conversations and special guest appearances.

Now available to pre-order on Limited Edition 12’’ Vinyl and Collector’s Edition Cassette Bundle via Bandcamp arriving on streaming services 30/05 With a UK tour currently under development for 2023, the release will also be accompanied by merchandise in the form of limited edition playing cards, specialist apparel and more.

Shogun + Tzusan sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

T: I guess music sparked my love for music? seems like a reductive answer but it's true. Rap-wise for me guess it started with roots manuva, the streets, roll deep etc.
S: Wu Tang Clan - Gravel Pit. I was about 4. I wanted to be a palaeontologist. Loved dinosaurs, so naturally I was drawn to the video. Fell in love with rap and that was that.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

T: My biggest inspirations are always the people around me and I feel like I'm blessed to have already worked with a bunch of folk who I wouldn't have really thought possible a year or two ago. Having Manga and Sonny on the project in particular is still a bit surreal to me so who knows what's next. Maybe I'll resurrect Tina Turner.

S: Too many to name and I’m not sure but it’ll be the best day of their life when they get to work with me. Man’s a muse cuz.

3. So what's the idea behind Lead Wetsuit Schematics?

T: Designed to fail.

S: But will ultimately succeed… unfortunately, for my busy junkie bashing schedule.

4. How would you describe your sound?

T: I wouldn't.

S: I’ll leave that for the single mums.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

T: First time I paid my rent off music.

S: Done too much cool shit to pick one. Just happy to have shit to do.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

T: Don't listen to anyone's advice.

S: Don’t be a coward. Smoke crack.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

T: Jim E Brown.

S: I’ve never owned a radar system but I hope to… one day.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

S: Lead Wetsuit Schematics.

T: I don't have Spotify but I've been going back to a lot of dopplegangaz recently.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

S: Quite like a wee muller fruit corner tbh.

T: He really does.

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

S: Lungs, Heart n Brain.

T: Caffeine, Zoot, Munch.