Thomas Hobbs

Answering questions from readers, the rap hero discusses the greatness of Kate Bush, George Clinton, drum’n’bass, and Outkast’s unreleased music.

Following the recent release of his third studio album, the Chicago rapper talks about the influences that have shaped his sound so far and making music that connects with the average listener.

For the 37th part of my London on Screen series, I wrote about the romantic park at the epicentre of noughties erotic drama 'Closer'.

"The Ghanaian-American singer, a rising star who released her debut album The Angel You Don't Know last year to critical acclaim, has seductive high-pitched vocals that sound like a cherub attempting an Aaliyah slow jam..."

"When the rapper tries to make people dance (Plain Clothes), or even plays the romantic (I Just Need) lead, it falls flat. The MC is far more compelling when he leans into being the Trap Yoda, cracking jokes (on For the Block he says he’s “on the stove like white vinegar”) and philosophy (“Never tell the next man your wages”) for drug dealers to live by."

An interview with keiyaA from the 75th print issue of Huck.

"Few horror antagonists can chill warm air with just a mention of their name, but actor Tony Todd’s Candyman is among them. The mythical killer, who appears covered in bees and clutching a rusty hook should you dare utter his name five times into a mirror, made a whole generation of horror fans scared of their bathroom cabinets, embedding himself deep into the public psyche."

"One consistent theme throughout horror history has been the dark side of technology and the idea the rise of the machines might result in something evil that we’re unable to switch off from. This technological horror must be confronted if the characters, and even the viewers themselves, are able to re-discover their humanity."

"I was once sent a script with a scene where sprinklers turn on and my “young, ripe” body gets “all wet”. As an actor, you just barf reading that. By comparison, Ginger Snaps was refreshingly intelligent."

A review of the rapper / television chef's new album.

The Chennai-born, Calgary-raised rap duo discuss finding their feet in an industry dominated by men, and why a salacious sense of humour is at the heart of everything they do.

In the latest Behind The Beat, Thomas Hobbs spoke to producer Harry Fraud about his love for gangster movie arcs and the story behind creating French Montana's "Shot Caller".

For the 36th part of my London on Screen series, I wrote about the gothic house from Mike Leigh's Naked and why the striking building maintains such intrigue.

"The combined length of the year’s two most-hyped albums, Kanye West’s Donda and Drake’s CLB, clocks in at 194 minutes – almost as long as a cramped train ride from London to Leeds, or James Cameron’s Titanic..."

For the 35th part of my London on Screen series, I wrote about Tom Cruise landing a helicopter in Trafalgar Square for 'Edge of Tomorrow'.