88 Rising has been paramount in bridging the gap between Asian and North American hip-hop, riding for artists like Indonesia's Rich Brian, China's Higher Brothers, and Japanese producer Joji. Together, the collective have helped cement their culture in an overseas market; now, they've united for a collaborative album, which is set to drop in July. With the big day rapidly approaching, 88 Rising have dropped off their lead single "Midsummer Madness," which brings together the combined talents of Rich Brian, Joji, Higher Brothers, and August 08.
The Rich Brian and August 08 produced instrumental employs a subdued, retro melody, which allows each contributor to shine. The concept seems to evoke memories of love lost, thus taking on a somewhat melodramatic quality. Still, it's easy listening all the same. The Chinese speaking Higher Brothers continue to impress, bringing an interesting linguistic blend to the mix while engaging in stylistic experimentation.
What say you, are ya'll checking for the 88 Rising LP?
Quotable Lyrics
Been a minute since I heard you wanna stay as friends
I learned from my mistakes, you made me want to learn again
I don't really see the problem, it's a risk I wanna take
You say let's see where it goes but I don't really wanna wait
