There was once a time, not that long ago, when the idea of an Irish artist rapping in their own accent was a source of bewilderment or bemusement. These days, Irish rappers are rightly embraced for sharing their experiences in as authentic a manner as possible. Rebel Phoenix joins acts such as Nealo and Mango x Mathman treading the path paved by the likes of Scary Éire and Lethal Dialect.

The Dubliner’s latest record reflects upon life and his shifting perspectives, with songs touching upon both the political and personal. Opener Kaleidoscope lambastes “government marauders” and decries how “corruption floods the Dáil”; Pretty Ugly pegs politicians as “mallet heads”. Elsewhere, songs like All or Nothing and Devil’s Son explore themes of social deprivation, while Never Too Soon is a snapshot of a childhood, recalling trips to “the bird market with Pops, when I first smelt the barley and hops” of the Guinness brewery.

The slouchy Herstory, meanwhile, is a feminist anthem of sorts and although undoubtedly well-intentioned, it comes across as a little glib in places. Nevertheless, Rebel Phoenix’s dexterous flow is impressive throughout and it’s easy to see why the rapper is well-regarded among his peers; Crown of Thorns opens with a voicenote from a friend that declares him “the realest dude I’ve ever met in my whole life”. This may not be his magnum opus, but it certainly establishes him as one to watch.