Pajel’s first full statement of intent, Purple Past follows less than two years after the MC’s breakthrough hit “10von10” catapulted him into the charts across German-speaking Europe. The viral Deutschrap phenomenon has managed until now to keep large parts of his story hidden from view. But between the harsh street wars, the sampled swagger of G-funk and the influence of kinetic Afrobeats, there are revealing moments of loneliness and grief. Recounted in liquid, low-pitched vocals and supported by rich textures and big-name features from Nimo to Bausa, Pajel’s past and present beg to be explored.