Yet for Lupi and bandmate Jimmy Nice it’s always been about the back alley, rather than the green room. “There’s this excitement from the fans that just doesn’t quit,” Lupi says.
“That spirit, that liveliness is what keeps things focused, especially when it’s coming from those younger kids. We might refer to it as ‘talking shit’, but having a chat about things constantly keeps us all plugged in. I’ve said for a while that hip hop fans are generally more passionate. They really live it, you know?”
A significant aspect of Lupi’s interaction with their fans comes through online forums. “That passion is most obvious through social media,” he says. “The cultural literacy of some of these 14 or 15 year old kids is incredible. The ease with which they’re able to describe the things around them – whether that’s art or anything else – blows me away.”
Lupi is quick to point out that, while he’s impressed by the skills of younger fans, the band definitely not passive in their roles as mentors and impresarios of the scene. “We’ve built this thing from the very ground up, and that means we stay focused on making an effort all the time. At the same time I have to admit that I don’t quite understand hip hop culture,” he continues. “I love it, and I love being a part of it, and I think that maybe not understanding it completely, or over thinking what we do, is what keeps it fresh. Hip hop keeps on changing anyway, so the best we can do is watch and listen, and hope to change over time.”
Spit Syndicate’s past is dotted with significant milestones: they were signed to Obese at the tender age of 21 and nominated for an ARIA for their debut album Towards The Light in 2008. Their future beyond those projects in the pipeline looks rosy too; due in large part to their active involvement in the One Day crew. Many of its members attended Fort Street High School in the inner west, and their history involves more than just a passion for beats.
“Our friendships go back a long way, probably to the days when used to be involved in the graff scene. We’ve got people like Horrorshow, Joyride and Jackie Onassis involved, and having friends that are part of a group just pushes us harder and harder. It’s creative and inspiring in a unique way: someone might come up with a verse that’s killer and you get forced to try something completely different with your next chorus.”
The Sunday Gentlemen tour will see the cream rise even further, with triple j favourites Jackie Onassis supporting their big brothers on a national tour. DJ Joyride will perform alongside Spit Syndicate live, and Lupi professes his excitement.
“It’s insane to be all heading out together, at last. We’ve got this hugely talented crew, but everyone is really strong and confident in their own pursuits too. The group mentality means that whatever comes we’re able to take it in our stride and just roll with it. It also means that there are a few more antics,” he laughs. “Plus there’s more talking shit, and you can’t underestimate the importance of that.”
BY BENJAMIN COOPER
