The Tamworth rapper IamSnap, whose real name is Shannon Elliott, has just released a new single called “Last Round”, which is based on his own experiences of depression and anxiety. Lydia Caesar is featured on the song, contributing her soulful voice to a track produced with brass, distorted guitar, thick bass and heavy hip-hop drums.

The first thing that struck me was the feeling of fatigue and anger. In his raps IamSnap talks about procrastination, self-doubt and those occasions when getting started on anything involves an enormous amount of effort. A few dark jokes are included in the verses and this gives the writing a human touch. When describing his own state of mind on a bad day he uses the same language that he would use if speaking to a friend.

Lydia Caesar’s arrival has a dramatic effect on the room; her chorus is massive, warm and wonderfully dramatic, whereas IamSnap keeps his verses clear and firm. Their voices are at opposite ends of the track and this contrast works very well. He takes on the pressure while she provides the burst of energy needed to meet it once more.

To me, ‘Last Round’ succeeds since IamSnap maintains a direct and personal style of writing; he speaks of depression, anxiety and creative paralysis using every day language, mixing in anger with a few sharp humorous remarks. This balance is what gives the song the appearance of authenticity. On some days he is confident while on others he is left with absolutely no energy, and his verses reflect both aspects of that cycle.