Moments in hip-hop

Jane Emerick
In an industry full of macho male acts, Romy Hoffman stands out in Australia’s hiphop scene.
But the onewoman show known as Macromantics says audiences should pay attention to her words, not her gender.
Melbourne’s and possibly Australia’s premier female MC says focusing on the exceptionality of women in the hiphop industry is “boring”.
“People always need anchors and latches to describe something but I don’t limit myself to my gender,” Hoffman says.
“Am I different than the typical Australian act of four guys playing guitars? Yes but it goes beyond being a woman.”
The 26yearold says behind the hypnotic beats that signify her music there is message.
“I see myself as a journalist first and rapper second,” Hoffman says.
“I write about what’s happening in the world and there’s a lot of serious things happening at the moment – politically, environmentally, segregation, rape.
“I’m trying to inform without being in your face.”
Macromantics’ music has earned her a best female artist nomination at Australian Urban Music Awards in August.
And her first album, Moments in Movement, although receiving mixed reviews, caught the attention of worldrenowned Lilly Allen who sought out Hoffman to join her Australian tours.
Macromantics will play three shows with Allen in August but not before touring on her own to promote her CD and new single, Physical.
Her live show will hit Australian cities across the country for performances critics have described as “enthralling” and “high energy”.
Hoffman says she’s not surprised at the reaction to her on stage.
“A lot of things make Macromantics’ shows work,” she says.
“I see my self as performance artist. It’s an intense show, so everyone, get ready.
“Expect to have a good night, expect to dance and expect to leave thinking.”
Macromantics performs at Geelong’s National Hotel on June 28.