Jus Rival and Blizzard talk all things Mega Powers!

Jus Rival and Blizzard have joined forces as the Mega Powers for their brand new self titled EP, The Mega Powers EP. Over 4 tracks, all produced by Blizzard, both MCs dive deeply into their thoughts and mindsets as Blizzard's melodic production provides the foundation for the lyrics to shine. Throughout the EP, Blizzard and Rival use tracks like DND to reflect on their introverted personalities as they use the motif of Do Not Disturb to express their frustrations around being bothered, which Blizzard describes as "melancholy car music" and Rival opens up about a "real life tough time" for him. On this project, they are reflecting on their current selves, including their dissatisfaction towards the recognition that they don't feel that they have been a recipient of throughout their careers, whilst reminding us of the dedication and hard work that it takes to make a successful career on tracks like Retro Low, which Blizzard wants to hit you like "the first cup of coffee of the day". Retro Low is definitely a standout on the EP, and Rival agrees, with his bars being dedicated to those who are "trying to build or create something who might need inspiration". Both artists are able to connect deeply with the listener and share a part of themselves that demonstrates their sacrifice as well as being relatable to those with similar feelings. This EP is one that will make you reflect as a listener and is definitely a stand out release of the year from both Jus Rival and Blizzard.

With this release being one of my personal favourites of the year so far, I wanted to find out more from the artists themselves as to what made this project come about and the creative inspiration behind it. Thank you to both Jus Rival and Blizzard for their time and I hope that you as the readers and listeners can take something from this as well.

What brought you both together to make this EP?

Blizzard: I've been a fan of Rival for years, have always listened to his music and eagerly anticipated any releases of his - there's DMs from us both dating back as far as 2011 but life just happened and we intended to work on something and we didn't - move forward about 5 years I produce a track on one of his projects, this was like 2015. Move forward again, I released a track 'Sometimes' in 2022 and he remixed it for his project - it was clear at this moment that we had very similar approaches in musical direction and a keen interest to change the landscape of 140 music. I produced 'Retro High' which was received really well, and then shortly after I sent another wildcard idea which ended up being Retro Low. Flowers and DND were the final piece of the puzzle. It was a very incremental process but it all worked out nicely in the end.

Jus Rival: I’ve always enjoyed Blizzard as a MC and even more as a producer. I was curious to create a EP that wasn’t what people expected from me. Something with depth and honesty.

What is the main stylistic approach behind the EP?

Blizzard: Production wise, I was aiming to take all of my off-piste influences and put them in to a form factor that has both indie and grime appeal. I listen to a lot of Radiohead, Olafur Arnalds and Cinematic Orchestra, and am very inspired by composers like Alexandre Desplat and Brian Eno and I wanted to find a way to combine those influences (very cinematic, melodic, epic) on 140bpm. Lyrics wise, we were just true to ourself. We wanted to bring our actual legitimate thoughts to the table rather than just saying stuff for the sake of saying stuff. Another thing I will say, is that regarding production, Joe Fire who mixed/mastered the project needs a very strong testimony, he glued everything together so well and really helped to provide that concrete, polished aesthetic that we both wanted. He's as important to the project as me or Rival. I know Rivz will agree too.

Jus Rival: I hit up Archie Griffiths who has a long list of design credentials in the game for this EP. The idea was themed around a sneaker box and like with shoes you are getting a pair. Blizzard covered all the production as well as lead on 2 tracks (Flowers & DND). For me this EP was important to showcase what honesty sounds like on grime. There is already songs where people have their ego on display, this time I wanted to show vulnerability.

What is the most important lesson or story that you want the listeners to have taken from the EP?

Blizzard: Just make what you want to make! When you remove the goalposts completely and be unapologetically you, disregarding all rules, you can really make something that shines through. When you remove all outside influence, and go off your gut instinct rather than trying to emulate others and capture a vibe that may not be necessarily your thing, you find the true you. Be confident. We went through about 15 beats until we settled on the 4 that we were happy with, so a lot of mistakes were made until we got to this point.

Jus Rival: I want listeners to understand grime exists in many places. Me and Blizzard are so different and yet we can link up and make amazing music, speaking on things all of us feel but may never say out loud. This project is a lesson into what grime looks like in the now with real mcs speaking from the soul.

Can we expect more from the Mega Powers?

Blizzard: Absolutely. More definitely on the way. We're not going anywhere.

Jus Rival: Mega Powers 2 of course en route.

And finally, what else do you both have coming individually for us to look forward to?

Blizzard: My new project 'Demons Living Rent Free' is dropping September 29th on all streaming platforms. Entirely self produced, mixed, and mastered, it's a very mental health driven project that I wrote during a difficult time in my life. Hope you enjoy!

Jus Rival: I’m working on a collab EP with producer Spooky. First single ‘Twilight Zone’ out in September.