Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

9 o’clock Nasty – Game Fit (2025)

It is hard to believe that we came across the punk group 9 o’clock Nasty four years ago in 2021. Well, truthfully, they more sauntered across our virtual desk with a bright little light sparking our interest with a “wake up, you lazy louse, I demand attention” attitude. With their EP, Nasty Growl, the Leicester trio hit us between the eyes with a blend of alt-rock and punk; however, as the years progressed, their sound evolved, and they twirled about, showing us numerous sides to a multi-faceted personality. The latest addition to their discography is the single, ‘Game Fit’.

Following the well-received ‘Love In The Circle’, ‘Game Fit’ has 9 o’clock Nasty put on their hip-hop hats as Pete Brock’s vocals seem to get you bopping your head, but with that old-school Tupac look that kind of says, “come at me, bro”. Not piercing or punching you in the gut; rather, the lines pulsate and sliver into your head so you find yourself singing “I’m game fit” before you know it.

Brock’s vocals capture the intensity of hip-hop, yet that slim sliver of punk continues to peep from the background. They do little to hide the punk-filled message of anti-establishment and rising to the challenges of such an uncertain society – a sound and message we heard in ‘Peacekeeper’. As with the not-quite-piercing but pulsating ride, a smooth set of synths carries you across the field, lulling you into a place of comfort; however, the tune prepares you “…to get ready for the moment of truth”.

Described as a simple beat getting you “…ready. Posied for relentless battle….”, ‘Game Fit’ reminds me of those levelling up tunes in video games. Chilled and danceable, but knowing you have to be prepared to take on the next challenge, however terrifying.  


In addition to the single, 9 o’clock Nasty released an official music video for ‘Game Fit’. You can view the video below and/or on their YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects and imagery transitions that can trigger migraines and/or seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is recommended.


THIS VIDEO USES LIGHTING EFFECTS THAT CAN TRIGGER SEIZURES IN PEOPLE WITH PHOTOSENSITIVE EPILEPSY
VIEWER DISCRETION IS RECOMMENDED

Find out more about 9 o’clock Nasty on their official website, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, BlueSky, Soundcloud, Bandcamp, YouTube and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator


Listen to more hip-hop music on The Other Side Reviews Hip Hop playlist: