Ten years ago, proud Yorta Yorta man & multidisciplinary artist Briggs released his career-defining, ShepLife. Impressed Recordings are repressing the authoritative 2014 album, available to pre-order now. This edition features previously unheard bonus tracks and is limited to an exclusive run of xx copies, pressed on xx xx.
Starting with his self-released debut EP in 2009, Homemade Bombs, Briggs marked an impressive arrival of a powerful and unique voice in the scene, cemented by the powerful 2010 album The Blacklist. Equipping his indigenous roots and upbringing in the rural city of Shepparton Victoria, Briggs brought a perspective like no other to his music.
Drawing from generations of observations, experiences, and stories, ShepLife effortlessly combines thoughtfulness and aggression to create the ultimate sweet spot—a defining trait that separates good artists from great ones. Featuring appearances from Ill Bill, Joyride, Sietta, and Dr. G Yunupingu, ShepLife tells the compelling tale of his hometown, capturing the essence of community within a disenfranchised section of society with profound insight and raw authenticity.
ShepLife and The Blacklist were originally released on Golden Era Records, the label of Hilltop Hoods, who were significant supporters of Briggs early in his career. Now, the torch has been passed to Briggs, who is re-releasing on his own imprint Bad Apples Music (named after the key single “Bad Apples” from ShepLife, which landed in triple j’s hottest 100 in 2014). This shift to BAM signifies the importance of self-determination and full ownership of Indigenous artists music.
Boasting a powerful triple threat presence between media, music and comedy, Briggs has crafted himself into one of the most diverse talents in the country, from an ARIA-dominating rap career, to the regular stints in LA writing rooms (including writing for Disenchantment, a show made by the creators of The Simpsons). With three solo albums, the multi-award-winning A.B. Original record Reclaim Australia, and a long list of mixtape and cypher appearances, Briggs has cemented his status as a household name in music within just a decade.
Redefining the landscape of music and vinyl production, Impressed Recordings have had their fingers on the Australian music pulse since last year, slowly etching their mark on the industry. They provide a life-line for talented artists you might not have heard of before, curating your new favourites as well as go-tos. With a dedicated artist-and listener first ethos, Impressed spearheads opportunities for musicians to release their music on vinyl, covering production costs, ensuring full royalties, and securing chart recognition.
