London-based multi-hyphenate Ragz Originale succeeds his 2023 project ‘BARE SUGAR’ with what he describes as an extended play of the LP. It materialises in the form of ‘SWEET NOTHINGS’, the B-side coded offering reflective of its title.
The Mini Kingz member’s production prowess shines through during the 11-track offering, each track expertly layered. Musicality radiates from the onset: the intro – fittingly ‘i choose violence’ – his tame tone starkly contrasting with the assertive lyrics.
‘SWEET NOTHINGS’ only features three other artists. Canadian riser BAMBII appears twice – ‘ice’ was previously released, setting the tone for the up-tempo moments of the project. The tried and tested duo tap in underground dance favourite Karen Nyame KG for the confident electronic dance-influenced track ‘sho me’.
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‘crossfire’ is the only other single to be released well ahead of the project, its bouncy rhyming scheme gives off traditional Ragz energy. The bouts of soulful guest vocals are increasingly intoxicating, possibly like the shots he stories on the track.
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Songs like ‘back in paris’ continue the sonic. The producer-singer-songwriter is subtly braggadocious as he talks lifestyle. Angelina’s additional vocal retorts “is it glitter or gold” which alludes to a double consciousness of the highlife he’s experiencing.
As we reach the halfway point of this deluxe, we’re deep in the Ragz Originale soundscape. His output transports you to a vibe-heavy plane. The subject matter picks up where ‘BARE SUGAR’ left off – love, sex, life and a tinge of toxicity.
We hear a nice call-and-response stint on ‘send help’ before getting brought back to the club for ‘sexy riddim’ which is indeed sexy. It seemingly pulling some influence from Jersey mixes.
Miso Extra is the final guest appearance, akin to Ragz, her ability to deliver across the board shows in the levels of this song. He closes us out with ‘cold case’ which despite kicking off warmly is the most sombre drop. ‘BARE SUGAR’ and ‘SWEET NOTHINGS’ meld together well as a package. Ragz Originale does what he does to a prodigal standard, his short and sweet tracks do not miss.
7/10
Words: Shanté Collier-McDermott
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