AOTW #4: Lucky Boys 'CIRCA (HOSTED BY MR. STEEL CITY)'

Feature Album of the Week #4

by Oli Goeldner

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie! Oi, Oi Oi!

Lucky, Lucky, Lucky! Boys, Boys, Boys!

Lucky Boys 'CIRCA (HOSTED BY MR STEEL CITY)'

From the genius minds of Baby Bruh and Aquinas, comes (in my opinion) one of the best rap albums to come out of Newcastle… ever. But, CIRCA isn’t just the workings of two men. No, it’s the essence of a whole scene built on respect, hardship, passion, and a love of Newcastle. That being #myrapscene. 

However, cultural significance aside, CIRCA is a solid piece of work that stands very well on its own two feet. Littered with jovial, instrumental beats and carefully thought out bars, this album tells a story of friendship and triumph. 

Opening with a kick-ass guitar cover of Advance Australia Fair, the record immediately explodes into a groovy, upbeat discussion of both local happenings and the thoughts of Aquinas and Mr Bruh. 

The lyricism enters into many different topics, with the most notable being Novocastrian pride, women (respectively) and a deep hate of Mike Barlow (if you know you know). The constant back and forth between the two voices posies a very entertaining narrative. 

It’s coupled with the signature intricate, bouncy beats of the Divine Chatroom. The work of both Baby Bruh and Aquinas individually shine in this album, highlighting both of their strengths both lyrically and production-wise. 

But, something that truly shines through on this album is the narration/hosting of the iconic, yet mysterious character of Mr Steel City. Whether it’s dotted in between bars as adlibs, or as full interludes and testimonials to the local rap scene, the inclusion of Mr Steel City is a very beautiful and creative addition to an already conceptually strong album. 

#myrapscene will live forever through this album, serving as the perfect sophomore release for Lucky Boys, two years after VEGAN SINCE A FETUS in 2022.