Blanco Drops Genre-Bending Mixtape ‘Gilberto’s Son’

UK rapper Blanco has unleashed Gilberto’s Son, a groundbreaking mixtape dedicated to his late father. Known for his fearless innovation, the Kennington artist seamlessly blends genres and international sounds in this 13-track project. Featuring an impressive lineup of collaborators—Sainté, SadBoi, Nemzzz, MizOrMac, Blaqbonez, Veigh, and Grace Carter—Gilberto’s Son cements Blanco’s status as one of the UK’s most inventive lyricists. The mixtape spans an eclectic range of influences, highlighting Blanco’s ability to push boundaries and redefine contemporary rap.

The mixtape showcases a string of standout tracks, including the South-American-inspired “Ponzi Scheme,” the melodic “Tyla” with Brazilian rapper Veigh, and the drill-heavy “Charlie Sloth” featuring Harlem Spartans’ MizOrMac. From the intricately crafted “Soda Lime” to the soulful “Trustfall” with Grace Carter and the Amapiano-infused “OneEighteen,” Gilberto’s Son is a testament to Blanco’s dynamic artistry. The project reflects his journey as an artist who effortlessly bridges diverse musical worlds, offering listeners a masterclass in both lyricism and production.

Blanco’s cultural and creative ventures extend beyond music. Fresh off performances at Glastonbury Festival and All Points East, he’s also making waves in fashion, representing Nike Air Jordan x END and attending Paris Fashion Week. His recent collaboration with DJ Interplanetary Criminal for “Races” and a musical pilgrimage to Brazil underscore his commitment to cultural exploration. These experiences, combined with his Angolan heritage, enrich the unique soundscapes of Gilberto’s Son, resonating with fans and critics alike.

The release follows a landmark year for Blanco, who gained widespread acclaim for his Rebourne mixtape, featuring UK heavyweights like Kojey Radical and Avelino. Hits like “Brilliant Mind,” with over 49 million Spotify streams, propelled him into the mainstream. Building on his legacy as a founding member of Harlem Spartans and his earlier solo successes such as “Shippūden” and City of God, Blanco’s latest mixtape represents the pinnacle of his evolution—a fearless, genre-defying body of work that reinforces his position as a leader in the UK rap scene.