NSG – The Big 6 (Mixtape Review)

NSG - The Big 6 mixtape artwork

Today (February 28th), NSG release The Big 6—their first full-length project since 2023. In the time since, they’ve continued to show up and keep their name relevant. From headlining Wireless Festival (2024) to preparing for the return of Red Bull Culture Clash this year with Native Soundsystem, NSG, the east London group have cemented themselves as one of the UK’s most exciting collectives. This 14-track mixtape is a reminder of why—they’ve mastered their signature fusion of Afrobeats, Dancehall, and Hip-Hop, all while pushing their sound into new spaces.

Red Bull’s Culture Clash posted featuring NSG. Source: redbull.com

I played The Big 6 using noise-canceling earphones on first listen (because that’s the right thing to do), and the production instantly pulled me in. The production (by in-house executive 4Play) is immersive, creating a layered, atmospheric soundscape that pulls you in. I can already picture how this mixtape will hit live—whether in an arena, a festival crowd, or even blasting through speakers at a day party. A lot of these tracks also have huge potential for sync placements—something about the punchy beats and infectious energy that instantly makes you imagine them backing the next big tech drop or a sneaker release.

Track Highlights

Amen

For an opening track, this one feels a lot like the ending of a performance that’s just happened. The instrumental breakdown almost mimics a live set's musical pause, where everything slows down before an explosive finale. The gradual build-up makes the drop feel even more satisfying—like a true 'AMEN' moment. It almost gives the listener the feeling that they’ve missed something, like a celebration or party for those who’ve been following NSG’s journey before this. It’s an introduction that feels like an insider’s moment for those who’ve been here before.

A.L.Y.B.H.B

This one’s going to be all over your For You page, no doubt. The catchy “Baby, act like you been here before” is about to soundtrack every ‘black women in luxury’ TikTok or couple's spoiling their significant other. The call-and-response element gives it a true ‘lads’ anthem energy, and it’s impossible not to love. No notes on this one.

Venus

Not my favourite on the tape, but I get why it's here. It feels more like a LYVIA track featuring NSG rather than the other way around. However, regardless of my take, Venus has already made waves—earning Capital Xtra’s Homegrown Track of the Week and securing support from DJ Target, COLORS, Dazed, and Wonderland.

Edited 7th March 2025

Since the music video for Venus dropped on March 3, 2025, my perspective on the song has shifted slightly. It opens with intimate, close-up shots of Indiyah and Dami in a warm embrace, alongside other couples sharing tender moments. The visuals perfectly complement the song’s sweetness, bringing it to life in a way that makes its impact feel more intentional.

Honestly (ft. Blanco)

Blanco’s gritty delivery brings an edge to the track, especially with the Top Boy adlib “Don’t beg, it’s disgusting”. I can already picture this going off in a festival setting with the crowd feeding off the energy. This track is made for a dance challenge. You know those ones where you put 20-30% energy into it? A cute 2-count-of-8 routine will get everyone moving.

Tell Me (ft. Tayc)

Love anything with Tayc on it. This song slows the project down a bit, transitioning from the energy of Honestly into something smoother. It's one for the ladies, with Tayc bringing that romance element, and the French lyrics add a special charm. The perfect balance for the mixtape’s flow.

Eurostar (ft. Murda)

This track is all about the lifestyle, with excessive mentions of 'Louis Vuitton' and all the high-roller vibes. It’s for those who live the luxury life and the ones who appreciate that ‘lifestyle’ sound.

Euphoria

The mixtape wraps up with "Euphoria", bringing everything down from the high-energy tracks with a nice, mellow finish. After all the intensity, it feels like the perfect closer.

Final Thoughts

The Big 6 is NSG doing what they do best—bringing energy, vibes, and a seamless fusion of sounds. While some tracks feel like festival anthems waiting to happen, others lean into moodier, more melodic territories. And throughout it all, their signature punchy one-liners cut through effortlessly, embedded in their music in a way that feels completely organic to the culture. Whether you’re blasting it in headphones, a car, or a club, this mixtape has something for every setting.

NSG continue to prove why they’re one of the most exciting groups in the UK scene. And if The Big 6 is anything to go by, their upcoming live performances are about to be unmissable.