Wiley - Snakes & Ladders (2014) Hi-Res

On “Snakes & Ladders,” Wiley’s fourth album with Big Dada, Wiley reminds us exactly what the Bow-born Godfather of Grime is all about. Innovative, banging beats and fast, scattershot, brilliant rhyming, all held together by a personality that is as compelling, contradictory and charismatic as any in modern music. It’s no exaggeration to say that if Wiley had been born on the other side of the pond, he would be one of the biggest stars in the world, and could achieve it without compromise. Here, though, we are sometimes left wondering what the ladders are in his career and what are the snakes.

One thing is beyond doubt, as JME puts it on “From The Outside”: “Wiley is a national treasure.” The sheer off-the-cuff brilliance of his vocal poise is something we should cherish. Skepta provides production for stand-out “On A Level,” a lithe take on classic grime tropes, but it’s Wiley’s lyrical exuberance that would make this a hit if it got the half the radio play of “Heatwave.” “Step 21” provides enough dubstep feel for Wiley to show he can make anything bounce. “What’s On Ya Mind?” demonstrates a more thoughtful Wiley offering a little advice. Other guests include Cam’ron, Ice Kid, Teddy and Wrigz, but it’s Wiley’s voice and Wiley’s rhythms that catch the listener’s attention again and again.

One thing is for certain. Whatever he says, one day Wiley will stop making music. Perhaps only then will the UK realise just how lucky it has been. The man really is a national treasure and we should appreciate him while we can. But remember – he doesn’t need any help from us. This man makes his own ladders. And often his own snakes…