ARuM Explores Love and Hate for Tokyo in New EP "TOKYO"

August 30, 2024 | Tokyo, Japan | Team RJHH

The rapper ARuM, known for making a lasting impression during the “Selection Cypher” competition at ABEMA’s “Rapstar Birth 2023”, unveiled his brand-new EP, “TOKYO”, on Wednesday, August 28. Alongside this release, he also dropped the music video for his new track, “I Need”, directed by Shuto Yasuda, a renowned filmmaker and long-time friend of the rapper.

ARuM quickly caught the public’s attention after winning the competition, where his performance was widely praised. His previous track, “Katei“, which offered a graphic and poignant depiction of his family environment, had already made waves, both for the power of its lyrics and its shocking music video. Ten months after the release of his last album, “CBKSW“, ARuM returns with “TOKYO“, a project in which he expresses both the love and hate he feels for Japan’s capital. Initially from Kashiwa, a suburb of Tokyo, ARuM finds himself at a crossroads between his attachment to the city and the conflicting emotions it inspires.

The track “I Need“, which preceded the EP’s release, showcases ARuM’s exploration of new musical territory while maintaining the stoic mentality that characterizes him. However, it is with the EP’s standout title, “F**k Ma Pride“, that the rapper lyrically and melancholically conveys this mix of love and hate he feels towards Tokyo. This powerful and slow track is distinguished by the depth of ARuM’s voice, revealing his determination to fight for his place in Tokyo’s streets, while putting his pride aside to meet the expectations of his fellow rappers. Another notable track on the EP, “SACHI“, was produced by DJ MUNARI, who is based in Harlem, New York. ARuM formed a strong friendship with DJ MUNARI during his time in New York, and as he says, “Boom Bap is the best fit“. This rich and powerful track closes the EP, illustrating ARuM’s musical identity perfectly.

The music video for “I Need“, directed by Shuto Yasuda, captures the humid nights of Tokyo, reinforcing the rapper’s determination to make his mark in the capital. Yasuda, who has also worked on ARuM’s previous music videos and “New Balance” by 18scott, skillfully translates the song’s atmosphere into visuals, offering an enthralling and faithful representation of ARuM’s universe.

TOKYO, AruM