“This is the North Side, come with me let’s take a walk…” — from the very beginning, he depicts Pretoria as if it were a scene from a film. “Ntshware ka letsogo, let me show you around the block / Tshwane Wifi, tla keo bontshe hotspots.” If the local dialect is unfamiliar, don’t worry — dive into PretoriaBallZzz or reach out to someone from the area. Even without grasping every slang term, the atmosphere is palpable. The drive, the dignity, and the vision are evident. This album feels like the work of an artist who is aware of his roots.
Interestingly, this is the same artist who graced a HYPE Magazine cover prior to releasing his debut album. This serves as a strong indicator of the excitement surrounding him. Rappers from Pretoria typically deliver impressive first projects, and Mochen is committed to upholding that standard. The track “Northside Courtside,” featuring Thato Saul, showcases two artists engaging in a friendly competition of lyrical skill. The lyrics are sharp, the chemistry is seamless, and each verse is memorable. He confidently declared, “Mpsa tsao bereka ka masa, Bakery,” and made it sound striking. This is what sets Mochen apart — his thought process is unique. He weaves together sports references, cultural nods, street vernacular, and humor in a way that is cohesive.
