Review

Nemzzz's journey from Manchester's Moss Side to the forefront of UK drill has been nothing short of meteoric, and his debut album "Rent's Due" arrives with the weight of considerable expectation. Thankfully, the 21-year-old delivers a collection that not only justifies the hype but establishes him as one of the scene's most distinctive voices. From the opening bars of "Cold World," Nemzzz demonstrates why he's transcended viral fame to become a genuine force. His flow—simultaneously laconic and precise—rides over M1OnTheBeat's characteristically icy production with an assurance that belies his relative newcomer status. It's not just technically impressive; there's a compelling authenticity to his delivery that cuts through in an increasingly crowded genre. What separates Nemzzz from his contemporaries is his ability to shift between hard-edged drill cuts and more melodic offerings without sacrificing credibility in either direction. "Northern Line" showcases this versatility perfectly, its hook displaying a pop sensibility that suggests longevity beyond drill's sometimes restrictive parameters. The Manchester influence feels significant throughout—a refreshing counterpoint to London's dominance of the UK scene. On "Manny Made Me," Nemzzz weaves references to his hometown with the precision of a local documentarian, while the Aitch collaboration "0161" delivers exactly the hometown hero moment fans have been anticipating since both artists began their ascent. Lyrically, Nemzzz treads familiar drill territory—street politics, financial aspiration, and the constant hustle—but does so with occasional flashes of wit and unexpected vulnerability. "Postcode Wars" offers perhaps the album's most reflective moment, examining the arbitrary nature of territorial rivalries with a maturity that suggests significant potential for growth as a songwriter. At 14 tracks, the album occasionally threatens to outstay its welcome, particularly in its midsection where a couple of cuts feel more like playlist fodder than essential additions to the project. The Central Cee feature "Different Gravy" falls into this category—serviceable but lacking the chemistry of the album's better collaborations. Production-wise, M1OnTheBeat's sonic fingerprints are all over "Rent's Due," providing a cohesive framework while still allowing space for experimentation. The LiTek-produced "Afters" introduces welcome afroswing elements, while "Cold Case" sees Nemzzz himself stepping into production duties with impressive results. What's perhaps most striking about "Rent's Due" is how fully-formed Nemzzz sounds throughout. This doesn't feel like an artist finding his feet or testing different approaches—it's the work of someone who knows exactly what he wants to say and how he wants to say it. In a scene sometimes criticised for its homogeneity, Nemzzz has crafted a debut that stands apart through sheer force of personality. "Rent's Due" isn't just a solid first album; it's a statement of intent from an artist determined to leave his mark on British rap. The rent isn't just due—it's been paid in full.