Dizzee Rascal Goes American, But Can US Fans Buy It?

Dizzee Rascal's latest album, Maths + English, showcases his most Americanized production to date, including a notable guest appearance from Houston rappers UGK. Despite this outward-looking approach, the record's availability in the U.S. is restricted to digital formats by XL Records, a decision that raises questions about the label's confidence in the American market for grime's international ambassador.

The album represents a potential pivot for Dizzee, moving beyond his traditional grime sound. Tracks like "Sirens" and "World Outside" blend diverse influences, hinting at a broader hip-hop appeal. While "Pussyole (Old Skool)" samples an iconic club-rap beat, other songs, such as "Hardback (Industry)" and "Where's Da G's," explore Southern hip-hop territories.

Only the final track, "U Can't Tell Me Nuffin," retains a direct link to Dizzee's earlier grime work. Guest spots from Lily Allen and Alex Turner of the Arctic Monkeys also feature, though they don't define the album's overall direction as much as its club-rap-influenced front half.