What makes It's Not a Rumour by Akala notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its incisive lyrics and innovative sound, helping to elevate the profile of UK rap globally. It showcased Akala's lyrical prowess and led to his recognition as a thought leader in the genre, influencing subsequent artists within the grime and hip-hop scenes. It's Not a Rumour is Akala's debut album released in 2006, marking his entry into the UK rap scene. At this time, he was establishing himself as a unique voice, blending grime with insightful lyrical narratives. This album set the stage for his future works and solidified his position within the music industry.

Who is It's Not a Rumour for?

It's Not a Rumour works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, dynamic emotional journeys and thought-provoking lyrical reflections.

How many songs are on It's Not a Rumour?

It's Not a Rumour has 12 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

It's Not a Rumour

Akala · 2006

49 min · 12 tracks · grime

Dynamic UK rap flows intertwine with sharp social commentary and eclectic beats, capturing the pulse of London life.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Shakespeare — This track highlights Akala's brilliant wordplay and clever references, showcasing his unique ability to merge literature with contemporary issues.
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This is London — An exploration of urban life, this track captures the grit and diversity of London while illustrating Akala's narrative skill and social awareness.
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Roll Wid Us — This energetic anthem exemplifies Akala’s capacity to blend catchy hooks with powerful messages about unity and resilience within the community.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong lyrical content and unique sound but has some uneven pacing in its latter half.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features high-energy tracks with rapid-fire verses, while the second half shifts to more introspective themes and slower tempos.
Akala employs varied rhyme schemes and intricate wordplay throughout, often layering multiple flows within a single track.
Several tracks incorporate samples from diverse genres, blending elements of rock, jazz, and traditional UK sounds into the grime framework.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
dynamic emotional journeys
thought-provoking lyrical reflections
engaging narrative storytelling

Where this album fits

Career context: It's Not a Rumour is Akala's debut album released in 2006, marking his entry into the UK rap scene. At this time, he was establishing himself as a unique voice, blending grime with insightful lyrical narratives. This album set the stage for his future works and solidified his position within the music industry.
Stylistic neighbors: Lowkey· Kano· Giggs

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Stand Up 3:40
2 Yeah Yeah Yeah 3:51
3 The Edge 3:15
4 Shakespeare 4:37
5 Carried Away 3:35
6 This is London 3:21
7 Bullshit 3:18
8 Roll Wid Us 4:07
9 Cold 3:19
10 Hold Your Head Up 3:22
11 Why Do 9:05
12 The Edge (Mikey J remix) 4:21

What to play next

Listen next

Freedom Lasso

2007

Full Akala discography Artists like Akala

UK rap grime

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata