There’s something powerful about hip-hop when it crosses oceans.

For this latest release under Auxiliary Cinema, I had the opportunity to collaborate internationally on a project that connected France and Detroit in an authentic, gritty way. The result is “Rap Jeu Ou Rap Dieu” — a transatlantic visual and lyrical exchange between MC Komo and Phat Kat over a hard-hitting beat by Le Chimiste.

From Paris to the D

I first met MC Komo while overseas in Paris, and my friend Phat Kat made the connection for me looking rap stuff in Paris. We instantly connected over our shared respect for raw lyricism and authentic hip-hop culture. And right after meeting, Komo asked me right away to film his next music video for him, and of course I’m saying yes at the moment, but didn’t know how we’d make it happen. Komo is now a friend for life.

Editing this project was a creative puzzle in the best way possible — digging through footage from two continents, finding the strongest performances, the most expressive moments, and what looked good. Because I don’t speak french I couldn’t translate MC Komo’s words but you can still tell when someone is rapping, dropping bars. Cutting to that is old work.

My job was to bring cohesion to two separate productions and make it feel intentional. It was cool collaborating with artists so far away.

The Sound: Grit, Intention & Legacy

“Rap Jeu Ou Rap Dieu” — translated loosely as Rap Game or Rap God — carries a weight to it.

Komo Sacrcani and Phat Kat trade verses over Le Chimiste’s gritty, textured production. It feels raw. Honest. Focused. This is not glossy pop-rap — it’s rooted in tradition. Of course Phat Kat is a legend in his own right.

Detroit’s influence is undeniable. So is the French underground energy. And somewhere in the middle is the universal language of hip-hop.

Art in the Background

A powerful detail in the Detroit scenes is the presence of muralists Rick Williams of Distinct Life and Ghostbeard creating in the background.

Their work adds texture and authenticity — living art behind living music. It reinforces what this project represents: creatives building something larger than themselves.

Special thanks to the SUPERFRIENDS:
@rickwlms
@ghostbeard

Watch & Support

🎵 Get the new album today:
https://tomawacklabel.bandcamp.com/al…

Music Video Filmed & Edited by @AUXCinema
Additional Filming by: Marianne BP & Guillaume Saix

This one means a lot to me. From Paris to Detroit — this is hip-hop done with respect, intention, and international connection.

More global collaborations coming soon.

— Brandon Damon
Auxiliary Cinema