Review by John
Album Review: Season In Summer (Summer Sonic Riddim) by Kotobuki Kun, Gun Hype & Bad Justice
Alright, let’s dive into this gem from 2012—Season In Summer (Summer Sonic Riddim). It’s a reggae album that feels like a warm breeze on a Tokyo summer night. Released under Rudebwoy Funk Records in Japan, it’s got that laid-back island vibe but with a twist of Japanese creativity. You can tell these guys weren’t just copying the classics; they were adding their own flavor to the mix.
The title track, Season In Summer (Summer Sonic Riddim), is an absolute standout. The riddim itself has this hypnotic groove that sticks to your brain like gum on a hot sidewalk. It’s not overly complicated, but sometimes less is more, ya know? The beat is smooth, and the melody loops in a way that makes you wanna nod your head for hours. What really gets me is how chill it feels—it's perfect for kicking back after a long day or sipping something cold while staring at the sunset. If I close my eyes, I can almost feel sand between my toes, even though I’m miles away from any beach.
Another track that caught my ear is… well, honestly, I don’t remember its name off the top of my head (oops), but it had this killer bassline. Like, the kind of bassline that makes you think, “Yeah, this is why I love reggae.” It’s deep, punchy, and just groovy enough to make you move without trying too hard. The artist layered some crisp vocals over it, and man, it was fire. Every time I hear it, I get flashbacks to lazy afternoons where nothing mattered except good vibes and great tunes.
What’s cool about this album is how it blends traditional reggae sounds with a modern touch. It’s clear Kotobuki Kun, Gun Hype, and Bad Justice put their hearts into it. They didn’t try to reinvent the wheel—they just polished it till it shone brighter than most. And coming out of Japan, a place not exactly known for reggae, makes it even more impressive. Props to them for keeping the spirit alive across borders.
Reflecting on this album now, I realize it’s one of those records that doesn’t demand attention—it earns it. It’s not flashy or loud, but it sneaks up on you when you least expect it. Listening to it feels like catching up with an old friend who always knows how to lift your mood. Oh, and here’s a random thought: if this album were a food, it’d be ramen topped with jerk chicken. Weird combo, but trust me, it works.
So yeah, give Season In Summer (Summer Sonic Riddim) a spin if you’re craving something mellow yet memorable. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself zoning out and daydreaming about tropical vacations!
