Review: Nige B 's Reshape // Refashion "immersive, dynamic, and full of surprises"

by Scott Roos

cover art design by Annalisa Heppner with photography by Brandon White

Our grade: A

La Ronge-based hip-hop artist and producer Nige B returns with Reshape // Refashion, a focused and emotionally resonant album that arguably stands as his most polished and ambitious work to date. Self-produced and instrumentally performed by Nige - with contributions from several notable artists - the record showcases not just his sonic evolution, but a deep appreciation for the power of true collaboration.

From the first track, it's clear that the production quality on this album is on another level. The sound is lush and atmospheric, with carefully layered instrumentation - piano-style keys, ambient synths, tasteful bass drops - all adding depth without overwhelming the mix. It’s a headphone album in the best sense: immersive, dynamic, and full of small surprises that emerge on repeat listens.

Nige chooses a more autotuned vocal style in the more "sung" passages that run consistently through the album, providing a smooth and cohesive thread. While this delivery can feel a bit uniform at times, the variety really comes through in the instrumentals and featured artists, which bring colour and character to every track. Nige is clear about the creative process: “I do not write the lyrics, but I give the artists a theme to work with and allow them to create freely. That’s when the magic really happens.”

That ethos is at the heart of Reshape // Refashion. Rather than controlling every detail, Nige sets the vision and then invites others to explore it from their own perspective. The result is a true collaborative record, where the chemistry between Nige and his guests elevates every moment. His most frequent collaborator on this record, Dubbygotbars, adds melodic energy to several standout tracks, while artists like Coletta, Txreek, Rezcoast Grizz, and Siahlaw each bring their own flavor to the table.

Tracks like “Morning Drive” and “Different Build” show off the album’s chill, atmospheric side, while “Trap Doors” leans into its memorable hook with confidence. “Say Yes” stands out as a late-album gem, introducing a breezy bossa nova-inspired rhythm that injects a fresh, summery, vibe without straying too far from the album’s tone. On “Paper,” things get heavier - slow and plodding, but in a way that hits, anchored by thick low-end and deliberate pacing.

“Interlude”, with its more R&B-leaning sound, is a moment where the vocals step forward, highlighting versatility. It's also a moment where the album's theme of reflection and growth feels particularly present.

In his own words, “This record is all about self-improvement, growth, and evolution—coming from nothing and learning to adapt, transform, and push forward.” That journey isn’t just reflected in the lyrics—it’s baked into the DNA of the album itself. Nige’s openness to growth, both as a producer and a collaborator, shows in the refined production, the thoughtful arrangements, and the way each track breathes within the larger narrative.

Reshape // Refashion is more than a solo statement - it’s a collective expression, shaped by vision, trust, and the kind of creative synergy that can’t be forced. It’s a project rooted in personal transformation, but elevated by the contributions of a tight-knit artistic community. For Nige B, this album isn’t just a step forward - it’s a defining moment.