88 Rising enlists Joji, Rich Brian, Higher Brothers, and AUGUST 08 for the enjoyable, ‘F the rules’ anthem, “Midsummer Madness.”

Mass media company 88rising definitely seems to be on the ‘rise.’ Artists associated with the company – namely Joji and Rich Brian – have experienced their fair share of success.  Those two standouts, fresh off of albums In Tongues and Amen respectively, join forces alongside Chinese hip-hop group Higher Brothers and AUGUST 08 for the single, “Midsummer Madness.” The question is, just HOW mad is the midsummer?

Joji is the first verse heard on “Midsummer Madness” following the instrumental intro.  Notably, he sings higher than usual, which is refreshing.  Still, he’s moody, even if the sound of the record is relatively bright. His chorus sets the tone:

“Last night, I lost all my patience / You were f**ked up, I was wasted it / Midsummer madness / I can’t take it no more, no more / F**k the rules.”

Rapper/Singer AUGUST 08 follows the chorus with the first official verse, dropping a clever 21 Savage reference, and of course, matters of the heart (“Only one you gonna blame when it’s over / Can’t look me in the eyes when you sober”).  After ‘disregarding the rules’ on the chorus once more, Rich Brian arrives for the second verse, reminiscing on sex and physical, disregarding the ‘rules’ of a relationship. Higher Brothers brings some spice on the third and final verse, bringing some Chinese bars into the mix.  In the spirit of the song, “f**k the rules.”

Final Thoughts

“Midsummer Madness” is a showcase of talent essentially, and 88rising definitely has some great pieces.  Will this record affect the rules, let alone the world? Eh, probably not, but it’s certainly worthwhile.  The biggest rub is the length – nearly five minutes is a bit too much “Midsummer Madness.”

88rising, Joji & Rich Brian • Midsummer Madness (Ft. Higher Brothers & AUGUST 08) – Single • 88rising / 12Tone Music • Release: 6.7.18

Photo Credits: 88rising / 12Tone Music