Photo Credit: Jun Yokayama — Photo Credit: Jun Yokayama

237 member Big Nate has provided us with an 11-track project entitled ‘In My Prime’. Following the release of ‘This Is Not A Drill 2’ in April 2020, the Lewisham resident has wasted no time in following up.

The beginning of the tape starts with a portion of spoken word exploring some of Nates thoughts expanding on his intentions of taking over the rap scene. Shortly followed by ‘Real Talk’ which is exactly what it says on the tin, straight facts! An uplifting banger, with an inspirational chorus giving the tape an inviting introduction. With his heart on his sleeve by this point,’Breakthrough’ gives us a first-person impression, this is almost a statement describing the ins and outs of his life exploring the world as he sees it.

“In my ends only the real survive around here, if you ain’t tough you’ll die around here.” - Although the EP was created in 2017, a lot of the content is still relevant to this day!

Before introducing a number of features Nate continues to comfortably glide over a fuse of drill and grime instrumentals - which is clearly his comfort zone. The shortlist of features include Yxng Jynn, K Soul, Demz and fellow 237 Mob member Kish! Fantastic.

'Mind Over Matter', is a soulful vibe consisting of an R&B inspired chorus which sees him exploring the different options of how to make things work for his people. With the chorus sung by K Soul this is another moral boosting tune which seems to be a running theme throughout the project so far.

The project ends as it starts, with spoken word but with live ambience this time giving it an enhanced level of texture. With some inspiring words on the outro it's a nice touch for the finale. Overall ‘In My Prime’ is a well-rounded project and it holds great depth emphasising the emotions and thoughts of Big Nate.