David Dallas
The Rose Tint
If listening to The Rose Tint without a fine tooth comb, you might miss the fact that David Dallas came from New Zealand obscurity to ESPN and HBO co-signed phenom virtually overnight. While Dallas shares characteristics with some of NYC’s strongest punchline emcees, he distinguishes himself with his earnest approach, subtle accent and sincere appreciation for the fans who help him “keep the lights on” as he relays on “Life Is…” Dallas is backed by mainstream, radio-friendly production on his second full-length, but mostly strays from the braggadocio and trappings of the scene and stays true to what he knows.
Though the accolades in his homeland have been plentiful, David Dallas was largely unknown to the American public prior to Kanye West featuring Dallas’ breakout “Big Time” on his blog last year. With the Kanye bump in tow, Dallas rode the hype machine into the studio and emerged with The Rose Tint, a record chronicling the rapper’s unlikely journey to Harlem which is easily the most impressive Kiwi cultural export since Flight of the Conchords. Dallas stands as an inspirational tale of coming from nowhere with the mecca of hip hop in one’s crosshair and hitting it big under the bright lights.
Song you will remember in five years: “Til Tomorrow”
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