A revealing glimpse of the man underneath the headlines…Global drill sensation Digga D has had his fair share of interaction with police authority and the legal system. The impact of the censorship and current scrutiny over his creative output continues to influence the messages and any lyrical content he can convey to his rapidly growing fanbase.
But the restrictions are yet to prevent him from reaching people around the world. If his gritty, somewhat edgy debut ‘Double Tap Diaries’ from 2019 showcases his ability to thought-provoke and surprise, ‘Made In the Pyrex’ is more grounded as a follow-up. It is diverse, but settled in direction, settling for a safer delivery and execution.
The mixtape release comes after a vibrant period where the 20-year-old pioneer landed at number five in the charts. With a lucrative list of collaborators, this project is a star-studded event featuring some leading rap talent.
Not a basic drill record, there is more on display, the rising star demonstrates how rapidly things move in Digga D land, and this record documents his high potential, strengths, hinting at possible future directions.
The arresting ‘Intro’ is a decent opener, while the subversive ‘Bluwuu’ represents an inviting moment. In part a product of some freestyling he did a couple of years back, the lyrics are explicit, providing a contrast to the simple beat that is on offer.
Meanwhile, ‘Bringing It Back’ is a winning number. Featured artist AJ Tracey’s style works smoothly on this track, providing a well-oiled, stimulating collaboration. There is a lot of slang, which could go unnoticed. The gun theme is present referenced as “PR”, and snappy lyrics are delivered over a hook. Topicality is secured via lyrics such as “Look, I locked up the food for the kids like Boris (like Boris)/And then I let it go like Rashford”.
Elsewhere, a track like ‘No Chorus’ has the potential to become a big tune. A collaboration with M1llionz, it is distinctive, and there is a sense that much fun was being had in the making. Despite the title, it does actually have a chorus. The more introspective ‘Trust Issues (I’m Joking I Trust my Mum)’ provides deeper, more personal insights to Rhys Herbert’s inner workings; the complexity of his relationships with friends and family. A fascinating song, its delicacy is teasing, leaving you wanting more of the same.
Offering some distinct crossovers of variety and cleverness, it will be exciting to see what path Digga D is going to follow next, it’s likely to be an interesting one. It would be fulfilling to see his identity transcend that of TikTok, strict policing and news headlines, and perhaps this album offers a first step in that direction.
8/10
Words: Susan Hansen
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