ALBUM REVIEW - A SHORT STORY ABOUT A WAR
In a world constantly grappling with the complexities of power, inequality, and conflict, Shadrach Kabango—better known as Shad—crafted A Short Story About A War, an album that resonates deeply with the chaos of our times. Released in 2018, the album offers more than just music; it is a stark, poetic mirror of society’s flaws and contradictions. During our recent interview, Shad delved into the making of the album, sharing insights into the creative process and the urgency behind its message.
When asked about the album’s development, Shad was transparent about the intense emotional and intellectual effort it demanded. “It was a very challenging album to make,” he said. “I had this picture in my mind... a story rich in meaning and metaphor. How could I represent it in sound?” That challenge, it seems, was not only technical but also emotional. Each track required a careful balancing act—turning harrowing themes of war, apathy, and survival into something that listeners could both engage with and reflect upon.
What sets A Short Story About A War apart from so many other socially conscious albums is Shad’s ability to tackle profound topics without sacrificing his vision. The studio sessions, he explained, were intense. “To represent these different feelings and perspectives was a real creative challenge,” he noted. This introspective approach, coupled with his nuanced lyrical delivery, is what makes the album not just a political statement, but a deeply personal exploration of the human condition.
As we discussed specific tracks, it became clear that Shad’s work was not just about the abstract concept of conflict, but about how people navigate systems of oppression and inequality on an intimate level. The album feels both apocalyptic and grounded, exploring worlds where society collapses under the weight of its own greed, yet individuals continue to fight for hope and survival. This tension, between destruction and redemption, is at the heart of the album.
From rock artists like “Rise Against”, “Linkin Park” and “Three Days Grace”. The lyrics I grew up listening to were very grim, poetic, triumphant and vulnerable. Artists like “ Kendrick Lamar”, “Isaiah Rashad” and “J Cole”, showed me that you can push hip hop to new ideas. With a song like “Headache”, and really any song I make, my first priority in my verse is flow. I can write the wittiest and clever bars, but if it isn't delivered in an interesting way, then its message gets buried.
The relevance of A Short Story About A War in today’s climate cannot be overstated. As Shad reflected, “It’s an album that asks what’s at the bottom of the tensions in the world.” In 2024, as political, social, and environmental crises seem to escalate, his exploration feels more urgent than ever.
Shad remains grounded in both his personal life and his art. “I try to stay grounded in my real life—what have I been blessed to care for?” he shared, reflecting on how his routine and relationships help him navigate the pressures of both the music industry and a world in turmoil.
Now, as Shad looks ahead to new projects, it’s clear that his journey is far from over. While he hinted at the conclusion of a thematic trilogy that began with A Short Story About A War, there’s no doubt that Shad’s voice, full of depth, wit, and compassion, will continue to resonate—both as a reflection of our times and as a guide to navigating them.
Ceasefire for the people of the world, and may their oppressors find jahannam on this earth.