Summer Jamz by Craig G: A 1997 Hip-Hop Cut-Up Masterpiece That Still Slaps
Yo, let’s talk about Summer Jamz, the 1997 mixtape-style album from Craig G. This ain’t no polished studio project—it’s raw, gritty, and straight-up chaotic in all the best ways. Released under Tape Kingz, this LP is a wild ride through DJ cuts, remixes, and hip-hop heat that feels like cruising down NYC streets with your windows down and volume cranked to max. If you’re into that cut-up/DJ vibe where tracks get chopped up faster than last week's pizza, then buckle up because Craig G delivers.
First off, shout-out to "Gots To Chill '97." This track hits hard right outta nowhere. It’s got that smooth groove but layered over with scratches and loops that just slap harder than they should. You know those moments when you're vibin' so hard you forget where you are? Yeah, that happens here. The beat switches keep you on edge, never letting you settle too long before throwing something new at ya. And honestly, it’s one of them joints I still blast when I need to reset my mood. Like damn, how did Craig G even think of flipping these sounds together?
Then there’s “Black Nostal Jack Remix,” which is pure fire. It’s nostalgic as hell but also kinda futuristic for its time—like looking back while stepping forward, ya feel me? The way he layers samples makes it sound like an old-school block party exploded inside a spaceship. Every scratch, every loop—it’s deliberate chaos. There’s not much else to say except… press play and let it destroy your speakers.
The rest of the album follows suit: remix after remix after freestyle after banger. Tracks like “All About The Benjamins Remix” and “Going Back To Cali” show Craig flexing his skills without ever slowing down. Even skits like “Intro” or random snippets like “Hey AZ” add texture instead of filler. Nothing feels lazy; everything has purpose—even if that purpose is just making you nod your head till your neck hurts.
But here’s the kicker—why does an album like Summer Jamz still matter today? Maybe it’s because it reminds us what hip-hop was built on: creativity, resourcefulness, and straight-up hustle. Or maybe it’s just proof that sometimes perfection don’t come wrapped in shiny packages—it comes scratched, remixed, and loud as fuck.
So yeah, give Summer Jamz a spin if you haven’t already. Just don’t expect some soft lil’ playlist music. This is aggressive, unapologetic, and messy AF—but isn’t that kinda beautiful? Funny thing though… listening to it now kinda makes me wonder if Craig G knew he was dropping something timeless—or if he just wanted to make people lose their minds on hot summer nights. Either way, mission accomplished.
