Flip the calendar back to December 25th, 2024, and from the depths of the Smokersblend brand emerged “Lions Sun,” a collaborative album that defies expectations and shatters linguistic barriers. Lion Arkroyal, Nagoya’s lyrical samurai, and The Love Theme, the architect of hip-hop’s golden age brought into the 21st century, have crafted not just an album, but a sonic monument.
From the moment the needle drops (or the play button is pressed, in our digital age), “Lions Sun” engulfs you. This isn’t just beats and words; it’s an immersive experience, a meticulously crafted soundscape that feels both timeless and utterly contemporary. Dominic Owen, known to the world as The Love Theme, unleashes a production masterclass. Thumping drums, the bedrock of any great hip-hop record, collide with sweeping strings that evoke cinematic grandeur. Skittering scratches, a reverent nod to the turntablist pioneers, add a layer of nostalgic grit. The basslines pulse with a tangible vibrancy, the piano melodies weave a warm, introspective tapestry, and choral interludes add a celestial sheen. This is a sound that breathes, that lives, that demands to be felt.
When Lion Arkroyal enters the fray, his voice – gritty and commanding – cuts through the sonic tapestry like a katana through silk. While his lyrics, delivered with unwavering confidence, are in Japanese, their power transcends language. His flow, honed to a razor’s edge, speaks a universal tongue, a language of rhythm, emotion, and pure, unadulterated hip-hop energy. This is the magic of “Lions Sun”: it proves that music, at its core, is a visceral, emotional experience that needs no translation.
The album, an 11-track journey on CD1, is a meticulously curated time capsule of hip-hop’s most alluring sonic elements. From the cinematic sweep of “Intro” to the rapid-fire “Alright,” the soulful “The Voice,” the scratchy energy of “Get Up,” the culturally rich bang of “Sakura Karma,” the ethereal “Heaven,” the epic “Kusanagi no Tsurugi,” the playful jazzy flavours of “What What What,” the reflective “Past Has Gone,” the vibrant “Day by Day,” and the conclusive musical beauty of “Outro,” Lion Arkroyal & The Love Theme guide listeners through a landscape of sonic innovation, nostalgia, and technical mastery.
This is an album of no compromises, a testament to the artists’ dedication to their craft. CD2 of the “Lions Sun” album contains the tracks “Gan Gan,” “Babylon In The Sky,” plus TILT Guerilla remixes of the track “Get Up.” There is also a collection of instrumental versions of the album’s tracks made available for aficionados.
Lion Arkroyal’s story is as compelling as his music. Born in London and raised in Nagoya, he embodies a fusion of cultures, a global citizen steeped in the rich traditions of Japanese artistry and the raw energy of hip-hop. His father, DJ Richio Susuki, provided a musical education that spanned genres and eras, shaping Arkroyal’s eclectic sonic palette. Influenced by the giants of 90s hip-hop – Dr. Dre, 2Pac, Biggie Smalls, and Snoop Dogg – he’s forged a sound that’s both classic and cutting-edge.
The collaboration with The Love Theme, a producer whose resume reads like a who’s who of hip-hop royalty, is a stroke of genius. Owen’s work with The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, Lil’ Kim, and countless others has left an indelible mark on the genre. “Lions Sun” carries that legacy forward, blending Owen’s signature sound with Arkroyal’s unique vision.
For Lion Arkroyal, the name itself is a declaration of intent. It embodies the strength and power of the king of the jungle, a reflection of the artist’s own unwavering spirit. He carries the energy of Nagoya within him, a city that has deeply influenced his artistry. Born in London but rooted in the vibrant culture of Japan’s third-largest city, he channels its energy into his music. He speaks of “Kusanagi no Tsurugi,” a track inspired by a local legend, a testament to the city’s profound impact on his creative process. His musical education began in his childhood home, where his father, DJ Richio Susuki, immersed him in a world of diverse sounds. This early exposure to the origins of hip-hop samples gave him a profound appreciation for the classics.
Working with The Love Theme, a legend in his own right, was a pivotal moment. He sees the collaboration as an honor, a testament to the power of connection through music. Arkroyal is driven by a desire to craft music that resonates with everyone, regardless of age or background. While he finds it difficult to pick a favorite track, he acknowledges the crowd’s enthusiasm for “The Voice.” His long-term goals extend beyond this album; he aims to grow as an artist, contribute positively to the Nagoya hip-hop scene, and leave a lasting impact on the genre. He holds a deep respect for the samurai ethos, finding discipline and focus in the practice of swordsmanship. In his own words, “Lions Sun” is a testament to “Hope, Passion, and Loyalty.”
Dominic Owen, known as The Love Theme, is a master of sonic landscapes. He sees his work as a continuous exploration, a journey that has taken him across continents and genres. The opportunity to collaborate with Lion Arkroyal in Japan was a compelling challenge, a chance to immerse himself in a new culture. He approaches each project with the same dedication, focusing on the essential elements of timing, performance, and melody. The limited edition double CD was a deliberate choice, a way to provide fans in Japan with a tangible piece of art.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, he acknowledges the profound impact of his work with The Notorious B.I.G. and Rakim, moments that stand as testaments to his enduring legacy. He’s evolved his production style, embracing the power of digital technology while maintaining the essence of his classic sound. He believes aspiring producers should focus on developing their unique style and owning their content. He acknowledges the inevitability of AI in music production, recognizing its potential while emphasizing the importance of creative control. “Lions Sun” is one of many projects he has in motion, alongside his work with Smokersblend and other artists. His passion for exploration extends beyond music, encompassing travel and a pursuit of a healthy and fulfilling life.
“Lions Sun” is more than the sum of it’s parts; it’s a testament to the unifying power of music, a bridge between cultures, and a shining example of hip-hop’s enduring relevance. Lion Arkroyal and The Love Theme have created a masterpiece that will resonate with listeners for generations to come. This is hip-hop at its finest, a blend of raw energy, lyrical brilliance, and sonic innovation that demands to be heard.
OFFICIAL LINKS:
Lion Arkroyal: Instagram | Tik Tok | Bandcamp
The Love Theme: Instagram
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