Hailing from Sydney's West, Defiant (MC/Producer) and Redbak aka Bravo Linguista (MC), have been involved in the Aussie Hiphop scene for many years. Already featuring on several guest appearances and guest production on albums and mix-tapes, live performances at some of Sydney’s rowdiest venues, Def and Red continue raising the norm with unique production and sharp lyricism. They are currently working on their first project, mostly in Spanish, due to be released late 06.

1. What inspired you to do what you do in this country?

We would have to say our families. They have been involved with music, especially within our Latin community for many years. That’s been a major inspiration as well as our own passion for music. I guess if we lived somewhere else, we’d still be involved with music somehow. It runs through our blood. 

2. Tell us about your Music style, what drove you to perform this genre?

Our style is Hip-Hop. From an early age both our parents exposed us to Folklore. We even did the whole Malambo thing back in the days too. (Adentro!) Our older brothers introduced the Hip-Hop culture to us. Back then they were mostly into Break dancing and graffiti. Many years later, (and after many twists) we are continuing the family tradition, but with rapping and music production. Rapping in Spanish wasn’t even in the equation 3 years ago, but here we are.

3. Which is your favourite band, artist or DJ? 

We have too many favourites to narrow it down to just one. Lately we’ve been listening to a lot of Ras Kass, Non Phixion, Styles of Beyond and Ghostface. Production wise it would have Dj Stoupe from JediMindTricks, DJ Premier, Orishas, DR Dre, RZA of Wu tang, and J-zone to name a few.

4. What would you like to see more or less of in the Australian Latin scene?

More unidad. More originalidad. More outlets for upcoming artists to be heard and supported. There’s an abundance of talent within our community waiting to be tapped into.

5. What has been the most memorable moment in your career?

Although we have been at this for many years, it’s all starting to happen for us now. So far, we have to say our set at Deliciosa. It was the first time we performed our Spanish material anywhere, and it went pretty well.

6. Of all the Latin Music Genres which one do you think has had the biggest impact in Australia’s Latin Scene and why?

Lately it’s been Reggaeton making most of the noise. Its catchy club music and has a huge following worldwide.

7. What’s you favourite Venue and why?

Any venue where they play Hip-Hop, isn’t a sausage fest, have happy hour, pool tables and a casual dress code is fine with us!

8. Who do you think is the most influential personality or Group in Latin Entertainment overall and why?

That’s a tough one. Latin entertainment comes in many different sabores.

As far as overall, in Hip-Hop, we’d say Cypress Hill. They definitely had a massive impact on the culture with their style and are still at it til this day. “Don’t you know I’m loco?”

Hip

9. What do you think is the key of success to achieve your goals in Australia’s Latin Scene?

Persistence, patience, self-belief, dedication…these are all obvious ones but what we believe is the key to success, is to enjoy what you are doing. And we have been. Hassling promoters, interviews and radio airplay also help.

10. Do you have a message for all the Latin Lovers out there?

Look out for The Bravo Linguista Project due very soon. 2 preview tracks are available on www.myspace.com/redbak

You can catch us performing at Casablanca on the 22/9 at The Vault.

No se duerman, it’s going to be a hellava night! Paz

Back to Interviews Page

Back to top