South London duo D-Block Europe kick off 2024 with their third studio album. The decorated duo enter the Year of the Dragon delivering ‘Rolling Stone’ – a fittingly titled project as it continues to edge them into rockstar status. The album shortly following the announcement of a now sold out four-night stint at The O2 Arena, and follows a 2023 run crowned by globally charting single ‘Prada’ – milestones, like all good things, clearly come in threes.
Quick paced on the intro, ‘I Need It Now’ kicks off the album on a high, amping listeners for what’s to come. The first single rolled out, we’re welcomed with classic D-Block Europe energy.
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Followed up by traditionally rhythmic ‘Go Go Gang’ – their boisterously named track titles are already an apparent feature early on- the song nods melodically to their esteemed status in real life with lines “Mr Banton, Mr Banton”, “Mr Williams, Mr Williams”. Remaining about real vs fake is ‘Poisonous Tongue’ which features a cool trancey hook from Dirtbike LB.
DBE have delivered love and anti-love anthems for past few years, and as we get into their third album – and at least ninth overall project – it’s admirable to see them still churning out refreshing but similar themed tracks. ‘Girls Love Lies’ speaks to playing “the game”, incorporating sleek wordplay and a warming beat from Lonewolf. ‘Bando Aiko’ is not only a reference to Young Adz’ Jhene Aiko listenership, it also mirrors elements of the neo-soul songstress’ output for a sultry drop.
The first feature we hear on ‘Rolling Stone’ is Yxng Bane, a fan favourite collab that has previously been tried and tested; indeed, ‘Pink Lemonade’ is a bright bubbly track from the trio. Buzzing Albanian rapper Noizyappears on ‘Eagle’, his gritty tone adding to the song’s authentic rap feel, Young Adz’ hook another playful salute.
For every upbeat bubbler this album also has a sombre pick, giving a realistic depiction of their journey. ‘Still Outside’ and ‘Not All Heroes Wear Cape’ are poignant takes as they touch on depression, loyalty, supporting their people and the perception of it all.
We get archetypal songs in ‘Skims’, ‘Metro Bank’ and ‘Lady In Hermes’ – a welcomed feat for the OG fan. Their flair for choruses is evident on this project: ‘Gassed Up Like Esso’ is subtly braggadocious, both Adz and LB flow with self-assurance, the juxtaposition of hard-hitting bars and melodies working well.
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As we begin the near the end of the LP, it feels as if we’re entering gloomier territory, ‘Badgirlriri’ boasting a dark bass heavy bounce that’s instantly head-turning.
However, the multi-platinum selling rappers decide to end on a high, calling on U.S heavy-weight Kodak Black for ‘Still Play Valorant’. They come together for a joint record that in no way feels forced, Kodak, Adz and LB all delivering a hook. A play on the popular MMO they contrast life and games, using an Eight-produced beat infused with flute tone for a great foundation.
Exploring themes of personal demons, love, lust and stardom, ‘Rolling Stone’ is an ode to life now, feeling reflective all while basking in fun, boasty tracks. D-Block’s Europe’s wordplay prowess is not in question here, it also notably sees Dirtbike LB shine, kicking off many of the songs and donning his contributions. With refined referencing throughout, DBE do well to always feel culturally relevant.
8/10
Words: Shanté Collier-McDermott
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