Atlantan rapper Killer Mike has been on a world tour in wake of his latest album; Michael & The Mighty Midnight Revival “Songs For Sinners & Saints” - We were kindly invited along to Glasgow’s QMU to get a craic.

He recently described this album as gospel, which is ironic as the heavens were open the whole way to the venue. Scuttling in from the unforgiving Scottish rain; the place was rammed, leaving us no option but to march upstairs to the balcony.

The view was incredible - I’d only known Killer Mike as one half of Run The Jewels, so to walk in and see him accompanied by a 5-piece gospel choir and stage dressed in white, in a cult-like fashion, was a sight to behold. We were instantly hit with the realisation that this wasn’t going to be your typical rap show.

Each member was asked to introduce themselves and naturally broke into song to do so. It was breathtaking to watch - their vocal control, range and strength, each as dynamic as the last, yet ethereal together. A powerful experience that would send shivers down Stephen King’s spine - hair on end and skin prickled - we were being taken to church.

Killer Mike’s performance was raw and authentic. The stage was his confession booth and despite the depth and emotion in his lyrics, he delivered them with ease and you could clearly see he was enjoying himself. The energy was infectious and for a soggy flock of devoted fans, nothing could dampen our spirits. His crowd engagement was on a different level from any other hiphop artist I’ve seen. Every song was met with roaring support. 

He dedicated the set to his mum as he closed the show with “Motherless”. It was a very touching and humbling thing to see someone I’ve only known for hype tracks being so open and vulnerable. 

The whole night really caught me off guard - it truly felt like a religious experience. From the Baptism of the Glasgow rain before the show, to the soulful sentiment throughout, this was something unique and uplifting.

I would encourage anyone with half an interest to witness this for themselves while he’s still on tour. 10/10

Words: Kryptik Riddimz