Return of the Bastards, also known as ROTB is an up-and-coming hip-hop collective from Singapore on a mission: to demonstrate what happens when heart and soul are at the core of rap music. The group, consisting of 10 rappers, singers and producers, got their start from an Instagram series called “Freeverse Wednesday” – a competition amongst themselves to write and deliver their best bars over popular melodies. Not satisfied with simply developing their musical talent, the guys would conceptualise and execute their own accompanying music videos. To date, their best performing video has close to 4,000 views. Their debut single “ENERGY” was released in April 2021. An introspective look at the obstacles they have overcome and the pressure of fitting into societal norms and expectations. Utilising the strengths and individuality of the members, the group successfully paints a picture of downfall and triumph. What sets ROTB apart from the others in the local rap scene is the collective’s impeccable chemistry. This allows the group to push their creativity to its limits. By being their own worst critiques, the group constantly strives towards improvement and never lets themselves grow complacent. Through their thoughtful lyrics, versatility within the genre, and group cohesion, the boys manage to seamlessly blend the sound of two eras of hip-hop. ROTB is a group with immense potential to blaze a trail for the new-age of local music by going completely against the grain.