Mudart
On a Sunday afternoon in mid-November 2023, the artist FKA KVNYL uploaded a TikTok video with little idea that his life was about to change. Just two days earlier, he had played a modest show at The Gasometer Upstairs, performing to fewer than 100 people. For six years, KVNYL had established himself as a hip-hop artist, earning respect within his local scene. However, despite the recognition, he felt unfulfilled and unsatisfied with the direction of his career.
After a near two-year break to rediscover his sound, KVNYL explored new genres, pushing himself to the brink. A six-month writer’s block finally lifted when he shifted from 808s to gritty basslines and guitars, embracing his natural accent and using a deeper vocal register. His writing began to centre around world events, blending his lifelong interest in geo-politics with his music.
That day, he posted a snippet of a raw, unrecorded track with the provocative line, “The Prime Minister that I voted for is a f*cking p*ssy.” These 11 words changed everything.
The song's virality was almost immediate, igniting demand for a finished version. Over the next two weeks, KVNYL rebranded as MUDRAT, completed the track, and began building a devoted following. His rapid rise was a testament to the phrase "overnight success," as audiences became captivated by his blend of social justice and cathartic, rage-driven performances.
MUDRAT’s debut single "MUD" was featured on All New Metal (723,000) within days of its submission, a reflection of his unorthodox and punk-rock ascent. His music has been played at both frontline protests and national radio, rallying a fanbase eager to mobilise for his cause. Winning St Kilda Festival’s New Music Competition further solidified his reputation. Beyond the music, MUDRAT's impassioned speeches and skits with collaborators like PurplePingers have drawn significant attention.
Though a solo act in spirit, MUDRAT performs live with a seasoned five-piece band, including Emile Battour (formerly of Ocean Grove) on drums and Carlo Darbisi (formerly of Earth Caller) on guitar, adding an explosive energy to his live shows.
Having opened for BARKAA, sold out his first headline show at Shotkickers (200 capacity), and made waves at BIGSOUND, MUDRAT is quickly becoming a must-see live performer. With powerhouse management under Dave Jiannis (Epitaph, Hopeless, Trophy Eyes' John
Floriani) and booking with Casey and Jimmy at Select, 2025 is shaping up to be the year of the RAT.