Øsa OGB’s “Gritty Tapes” is an unapologetic dive into the raw and unfiltered energy that defines his artistry. Across its four tracks, the EP stitches together the grit of street narratives with an undeniable flair for lyrical dexterity, all while spotlighting the chemistry between Øsa and his carefully chosen collaborators.
From the opening seconds of “Spun,” Øsa OGB wastes no time establishing his dominance. The track is a sonic gut punch, with its ominous beat setting the tone for Øsa’s razor-sharp delivery. Lines like “Legacy to my name, not Tron / Like barber seat get spun” hit with a confidence that’s impossible to ignore. The wordplay is clever, but it’s the cadence that truly grabs you—a steady, almost menacing rhythm that’s as hypnotic as it is commanding. There’s an underlying tension in the track, a push-and-pull between bravado and vulnerability that keeps you hooked.
If “Spun” sets the stage, “Playing for Keeps” raises the stakes. The chemistry between Øsa and featured artists Sknny, Svndaypack, and ToneeC is electric, their verses bouncing off each other like a tightly choreographed dance. Øsa’s gritty delivery contrasts beautifully with Sknny’s dynamic energy. Svndaypack and ToneeC bring their own distinct flavors, adding layers of depth to the track’s narrative. The storytelling here is vivid, pulling listeners into a world where stakes are high and survival is a daily battle. It’s the kind of track that demands multiple listens, not just for its lyrical intricacies but for how it captures the hustle’s rawness.
The EP’s third track, “First Rodeo,” showcases Øsa’s versatility. While the gritty undertones remain, there’s a certain swagger to this track that’s hard to resist. Featuring Kutee Lee, Svndaypack, ToneeC, and Sknny, the collaboration feels like a masterclass in synergy. Each artist brings their A-game, weaving seamlessly through a production that leans slightly more melodic, giving the track a unique texture that stands out without feeling out of place.
Closing the project is “Darkest Flats,” a hauntingly atmospheric track that feels like a culmination of everything Øsa OGB represents. The beat is stripped back, allowing his lyrics to take cent stage. There’s a weight to his words, a sense of finality that’s both sobering and empowering. Featured artists ToneeC, Svndaypack, and Motombo contribute verses that add depth and texture, their voices blending into Øsa’s narrative to create a track that lingers long after the final note. It’s a poignant conclusion to an EP that doesn’t shy away from vulnerability while maintaining its gritty edge.
What makes “Gritty Tapes” such a compelling listen isn’t just Øsa’s talent—though that’s undeniable—but the authenticity that runs through every track. This is music born from real experiences, from moments of doubt and triumph, and Øsa’s ability to channel those emotions into his art is what sets him apart. The featured acts—Sknny, Svndaypack, ToneeC, Kutee Lee, and Motombo— also complement Øsa while staying true to the gritty, hardcore essence that defines the EP. With “Gritty Tapes” Øsa OGB plants his flag letting the world know he’s here to stay.
