UPPER JAM

A classic in Japanese hip-hop history, released in 2001, is now available on analogue for the first time to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its debut. The first major full-length album from Kumamoto, Kyushu's land of fire, which suddenly swept the scene and made a name for itself in the national arena was released in 2001 by the core of the Japanese hip-hop world, Gaki Ranger, and received high acclaim from all quarters. The album features 21 thrilling tracks, with the 2 MCs Potemkin & Yoshi using the skills they have cultivated in their live shows to deliver unpredictable lyrical raps, and GP & DJ High Switch a.k.a. HIRO's ear-piercing, thick-boned backing tracks. Guest artists include KEN-1-RAW from VOLCANO POSSE, M.O.S.A.D. from Nagoya, Rappagaria, Fukuoka Yutaka from PINK, RYO the SKYWALKER from the reggae world and many more. It is a timeless classic with an uplifting feel brought about by the combination of unexpected and irregular rapping and the exquisite pauses that are meticulously orchestrated!