REVIEW: East London’s Unknown T Unveils New ‘Adolescence’ Mixtape

Hailing from Hackney, East London – thriving drill artist Unknown T delivers his highly awaited mixtape ‘Adolescence’, presenting his evident personal and musical growth up until this point. Breaking into the scene with hit debut single “Homerton B”, the success track achieved a top 50 on the UK charts, eventually standing as the first ever UK drill song to be awarded certified silver. Back in 2020, Unknown T incredibly put together 16-track mixtape ‘Rise Above Hate’, showcasing his ability to construct a solid body of work through a well-worked, unique artistry reflective of a message around his past. ‘Adolescence’ is undeniably a level up, a new chapter of Unknown T accompanied by an abundance of new, captivating flows. 

Reinstating his status in the UK drill scene, Unknown T emerges into the tape with intro track “22 Double 0” on a menacing Chris Rich production. Solidifying his attentive drill sound, Unknown T carries his distinctive delivery throughout the tape on tracks like “WW2” (Prod by X10, AV, R14) “Trenches” ft Potter Payper (Prod by Sean Murdz) and “EAST” (Prod by R14, Gotcha). Track 2 “Driller Shit” is Unknown T’s most evident attempt of new drill-infused sounds, produced by AXL and Byrd – Unknown floats on the beat for three minutes straight. Providing a fast-paced flow, implementing hard-hitting lyrical bars Unknown T offers listeners his highly admired confident and slight arrogant delivery. 

Track 7 “Sweet Lies” is where the tape takes an impressive diversion, introducing listeners into a refreshing execution to his music. Appearing on ‘Rise Above Hate’, “SS interlude” offered a perception of Unknown T’s extensive artistry where we heard soothing vocals and “sweet symphonies” on the laid-back, smooth production. Similarly, on ‘Adolescence’, “Sweet Lies” (Prod by Sean D and AOD) displays a romantic, emotional side to the East-London rapper inviting wider audiences into his musical vicinity. “Bible-Love” (Prod By Chris Rich) and “Goodums” (Prod By Miink) give off a similar vibe, laying down layers of emotive wordplay throughout the track.

As great of an artist he is, Unknown T refuses to shy away from collaborating with artists who effectively complement his sound. The 15 track mixtape features Potter Payer, M Huncho, M1llionz, Nafe Smallz and Digga D. These tracks all came through even on new sounds Unknown T isn’t used to, although due to his elite artistry it is never a surprise that he’s able adapt and exceed audiences expectations each and every time.

‘Adolescence’ is a no less than an inspirational body of work reflective of growth, developed artistry, experimentalism as well as familiarity. Unknown T continuously levels up – at just 21 years old has delivered two grounded mixtapes and will go on to progress and receive the flowers he deserves, without a doubt. Entirely mixed and Mastered by Sean D, Adolescence represents the hard work of Unknown T and the teams surrounding him.

Unknown T – ‘Adolescence’ is out now on all streaming platforms.