Newcomers KAME & L.N.K obviously got the ‘rhythm’ but they also have much more.

The Nagoya-based hip-hop duo is KAME (MC) and L.N.K (Trackmaker). KAME & L.N.K (カメ・アンド・リンク) have played shows with fellow Nagoya rappers SEAMO and HOME MADE 家族 (Kazoku, family). It’s perhaps no coincidence that they and the popular emcee and trio all share some resemblance.

Originally from Toyota, near Nagoya, they released their first indie single “スマイル” (Smile) in 2005 and signed with EMI Music Japan in 2007.

The duo’s latest single is “リズム” (Rhythm). The arrangement is well thought out and progresses cleverly. Wordy lyrics supplied by KAME are the draw and L.N.K’s initially understated track jumps in front during the chorus. It’s an imploring song about a regretful break up.

While “Rhythm” is thoughtful, the two other tracks on the single, “想い描く場所” (Omoi egaku basho) and “ガッツ！！” (Guts) jam to a lighthearted party vibe. One was actually the theme in a Dynaland Ski Resort commercial.

It’s nothing without a skillful emcee, but backing tracks are too often overlooked. Thankfully that isn’t the case here. KAME delivers with smooth rhymes and the beats spinning on L.N.K’s turntables keep things going while shining.

I hope to hear more of these guys.

Tracklisting:
01. リズム
02. 想い描く場所～2007-08 Dynaland CMソング～
03. ガッツ！！

Watch the PV for “リズム” - it’s simple and very well done:

Listen to more tracks on their official website

Buy “リズム” by KAME & L.N.K