Croydon-born singer, songwriter, producer, and rapper Jords has released the uplifting new single “iPray,” which features one of his musical inspirations, Wretch 32, as well as the album title “DIRT IN THE DIAMOND.” In conjunction with this release, Jords also premieres the last segment of his riveting short film, titled “DIRT IN THE DIAMOND.”
‘DIRT IN THE DIAMOND’ Tracklisting
- ANCESTORS
- Drill vs Grime (feat. Lil Sykes)
- Rice & P’s
- Nervous Riddim (feat. Cashh)
- iPray (feat. Wretch 32, Miles From Kinshasa & Mrs Chambers)
- FIST IN THE SKY (feat. Jordan Mackampa)
- Enemies (feat. Masego & Kadiata)
- Stay Close (feat. Kranium)
- MoBay (feat. Tay Iwar)
- (Not) A Love Song
- Bea’s Interlude
- Beauty Spots (feat. Thea Gajic & Bea Anderson)
- Slow Song
- Caged Bird
- The Pot Of Gold (feat. Tamaraebi)
While Kadiata handles production, longtime colleague Wretch 32 contributes his distinctive narrative and contemplative style to the track, which pairs well with the more reflective side of Jords’ poetry. Having Wretch 32, the first rapper who encouraged Jords to start writing, appear as a guest on ‘iPray’ is a touching moment of full circle for the rapper. It’s the first time the phrase “DIRT IN THE DIAMOND” appears in the song’s lyrics, giving it added significance.
Jords compares iPray to Simba’s dialogue with Mufasa. I’ve spent the past year having several discussions with people regarding prayer, its purpose, and why we only pray when we need aid rather than to express gratitude. My prayers are more like journal entries, and it is a privilege and a joy to be able to share some of my most private thoughts and feelings with Wretch in this way. Additionally, I’m happy that I was able to co-create this experience alongside Soundcloud veterans Kadiata and Miles.
Kadiata continues, “Producing iPray was pretty straightforward, I wanted to capture a memorable and emotive guitar melody reminiscent of 2000s R&B/pop that would be combined with a true hip hop bounce while keeping it contemporary with present day drums & 808s.” The vibe of the music was captured well while writing the hook with Jords & Miles.
Jords teamed together with the acclaimed British-Nigerian filmmaker Renee Osubu to create the video. The play invites the audience into personal moments during a Nine Night and a burial, focusing on catharsis, sadness, and the intricacies of Black British speech in the 1970s. A touching demonstration of community and intergenerational discussion is at the forefront of Jords and Osubu’s exploration of the wonderful contrast of joy and loss. Check out the first segment (Mo Bay/Stay Close) HERE, and the second segment (I Pray) HERE. The film is a step up from the standard music video, inviting listeners into a more dramatic and expansive musical arrangement. Like his earlier visualiser for Almost An Adult, ‘DIRT IN THE DIAMOND’ hints to Jords’ search for meaning and immortality in all of his creations.