Dhruva Balram, Author at NME

ZAYN – ‘Nobody Is Listening’ review: ex-boybander crafts quietly purposeful pop

The former One Directioner's last album 'Icarus Falls', was a critical hit but commercial flop. Here he swaps maximalism for simplicity

AJ Tracey – ‘Secure The Bag! 2’ EP review: UK rap don goes back to his roots with surprise release

This sequel is a largely a solo affair designed to showcase the MC's unique talent

Five things we learned from our In Conversation video chat with Yxng Bane

The London star on his upcoming debut album, Boys II Men and going off-grid

OneFour – ‘Against All Odds’ EP review: a riveting look at the journey so far, and the growth that’s to come

With assists from The Kid LAROI and Dutchavelli, the Mount Druitt rappers experiment with new melodic styles in a potent nine-track demonstration of their talent

Giggs – ‘Now Or Never’ review: surprise mixtape sees UK rap star step aside for the next gen

The likes of Jorja Smith, Dave and Obongjayar shine while Giggs takes a back seat on this assured 16-track release

Kwame: “There are a lot of sharks in the industry that push their own agenda”

The 23-year-old rapper is playing the long game. His new EP ‘Please, Get Home Safe.’ is just part of a bigger, ambitious journey

WizKid – ‘Made In Lagos’ review: star quality and a sense of homecoming

The genre-blending musician doesn't quite live up his undeniable potential

Dizzee Rascal – ‘E3 AF’ review: a potent reminder that the rap legend still has so much to give

The east London MC assesses his enormous contribution while reminding everyone that he’s not done yet

21 Savage & Metro Boomin – ‘Savage Mode 2’ review: a near-perfect sequel that leaves nothing to chance

The rap and production duo weaving a cinematic odyssey of sound on this stunningly realised project

Lil Peep – ‘Hellboy’ review: a painful reminder of a unique talent gone too soon

This re-released mixtape bears all the hallmarks of its author's tragic brilliance