Apollo Brown, the renowned Detroit beatmaker, teams up once again with Fresno rap veteran Planet Asia to deliver their highly anticipated follow-up album, "Sardines," released on September 8, 2023, under Mello Music Group. This 14-track project is a testament to their chemistry, blending Apollo Brown's signature boom bap production with Planet Asia's sharp, introspective lyricism. The album opens with "Bird Food" and closes with "Can You Believe It," taking listeners through a journey of raw, unfiltered hip-hop that stays true to the underground roots of the genre.
"Sardines" features a standout collaboration with Marv Won on "Panama Sun," adding a fresh dynamic to the album. Tracks like "Wizardry" and "Jungle Juice" showcase Apollo Brown's knack for crafting intricate beats, while Planet Asia's storytelling shines on cuts like "Stones" and "Peas & Onions." The album's title track, "Sardines," is a standout, encapsulating the duo's ability to pack a punch in both lyrical content and production.
With a runtime of just under 47 minutes, "Sardines" is a concise yet impactful body of work that highlights the synergy between Apollo Brown and Planet Asia. Fans of underground hip-hop will appreciate the album's authentic sound and the duo's commitment to keeping the spirit of classic hip-hop alive. "Sardines" is not just an album; it's a celebration of the art form and a reminder of why Apollo Brown and Planet Asia are respected voices in the hip-hop community.
