Philippines-born, Calgary-based hip hop act LYRIQUE‘s video for single, ‘Smoke Break’ is a narcotic-infused reflection on love and cannabis that swirls to a chill rap beat.
“When creating lyrics, I sometimes like to use objects as metaphors to dig into other topics,” says Lyrique. “In this case, I’m comparing the sensation of a drug-induced daze to the feelings of being in love.”
Shot in the Forest Lawn and Bridgeland neighbourhoods of Calgary, the hypnotic video features various area landmarks that serve as a shout out to the rapper’s adopted city. The video follows the release of a series of singles and mixtapes from the artist since 2016, which have drawn attention from COMPLEX, CBC’s Q, MTV Philippines, and more.
Arriving in Canada in 2014 to work as a live-in nanny, Lyrique’s rhymes often draw from his personal struggles as a temporary migrant worker. Now a permanent resident striving to fulfill his dreams, Lyrique’s story is one of many within Canada’s Filipino diaspora.
Lyrique’s debut full-length album will be announced later this summer…but for now, check out the video for ‘Smoke Break’ below…