While Famous Dex came to "Japan" as an outsider, opting to pen his experience as a xanned-out observer, South Korean rapper Keith Ape is no stranger to Asian culture. Though not based in Japan, he professes love for "Tokyo," with his zany exuberance going hand in hand with Dexter's animated style. Japan is, however, represented by Verbal, who holds it down with a third verse. Together, the trifecta encapsulate the appeal that made 88Rising pop off in the first place.
While the remix doesn't feel entirely different from its predecessor, it does benefit from an added bit of cultural diversity. Should you find yourself hitting skip upon Dexter's original, this one will almost certainly do little in swaying your opinion. If, however, you vibed with the minimalism, and find yourself appreciative of the growing art that is Asian hip-hop, consider giving this one a chance. 88Rising's full Head In The Clouds project drops tomorrow; peep the tracklist.
1. La Cienega - Joji & Niki
2. Red Rubies - Rich Brian, Yung Bans, Higher Brothers, Yung Pinch & Don Krez
3. Swimming Pool - Higher Brothers & 03 Greedo
4. Peach Jam - Joji & BlocBoy JB
5. Midsummer Madness - Joji, Rich Brian, Higher Brothers & August 08
6. Plans - Niki & Ivory
7. History - Rich Brian
8. Lover Boy 88 - Phum Viphurit & Higher Brothers
9. Poolside Manor - August 08 & Niki
10. Beam - Rich Brian Ft. Playboi Carti
11. Let It Go - Higher Brothers & BlocBoy JB (Prod. By Falcons)
12. Disrespectin - Rich Brian, Higher Brothers & August 08 (Prod. By Falcons)
13. Warpaint - Niki
14. I Want In - August 08 & Niki
15. Japan 88 - Famous Dex, Keith Ape & Verbal
16. Nothing Wrong - Higher Brothers Ft. Goldlink
17. Head In The Clouds - Joji
Quotable Lyrics
Red red alert, paparazzi many trolls, following the way we roll
See my chain chain, it's been cold
See my gang gang, see how deep we roll
Karaokoe sang sang, till the early morn