Album Review: Frenemy by Rowshi feat BIGIz' Mafia, D+C
Released in 2010 under the Inside Muzic label, Frenemy is a hidden gem in Japan’s hip-hop scene that deserves more shine. With its G-Funk vibes and raw energy, this project stands out as both nostalgic and refreshingly unique. Rowshi teams up with BIGIz’ Mafia and D+C to deliver an album that feels like cruising through Tokyo at night—smooth but full of grit.
The title track, "Frenemy," hits hard right off the bat. It’s got that classic West Coast bounce mixed with Rowshi's sharp lyricism. The beat? Straight fire—lazy synths paired with a bassline so thick it could double as a massage chair. What sticks with me about this track isn’t just the production; it’s how Rowshi plays with themes of loyalty and betrayal. You can tell he’s been through some stuff, and his flow switches between laid-back storytelling and straight-up aggression. By the time the hook loops back around, you’re nodding your head like, “Yeah, I’ve had those frenemies too.”
Another standout is “Shadows on the Wall” (if my memory serves me right). This one leans heavier into atmospheric vibes, almost cinematic. The beat feels like it’s floating, carried by haunting keys and subtle drum patterns. BIGIz’ Mafia jumps in here with verses that are equal parts introspective and menacing. There’s something hypnotic about the way they trade bars—it pulls you deeper into their world without ever feeling forced. If you're into tracks that make you think while keeping your neck snapping, this one's for you.
What makes Frenemy special is how unapologetically Japanese it feels despite being rooted in G-Funk traditions. Rowshi doesn’t try to mimic American styles wholesale—he adds his own flavor, blending cultural references and language seamlessly. It’s rare to find an album from this era that balances authenticity with experimentation so well.
Reflecting on Frenemy, I’m reminded of how music can bridge worlds. A decade later, this record still slaps, even if it didn’t blow up globally. Honestly, part of me hopes it stays underrated because discovering gems like this feels kinda personal. But then again, maybe it deserves all the props—it’s dope enough to hold its own against bigger names. Either way, give it a spin. Who knows? You might end up calling it your new favorite “frenemy.”
