To the uninitiated, video games and hip hop might seem as diametrically opposed as two forms of media can be. This, of course, could not be further from the truth. Everyone from Drake to D.R.A.M. to Kero Kero Bonito can count characters like Diddy Kong and Mario among their list of collaborators, as sounds and songs from video games have found a home in the genre.
D.C.-native producer ALFii is the latest to spin the score of a classic game into hip hop gold with his latest single “RubberBandz.” Here, he transforms the vibey, atmospheric Final Fantasy VII opener “Prelude” into a bubbly, bouncy banger. A remaster of the venerable RPG saw a release this month, making “RubberBandz” the perfect jam for gamers who are engrossed in Cloud Strife and Sephiroth’s epic struggle, but feel the soundtrack could use a few more 808s.
“RubberBandz” features a host of local vocal talent with Boston rappers Luke Bar$, Connis, and Donald Grudge each taking a verse. All involved come with heat, delivering hooky, playful flexes about Balenciaga shoes, stunting on Instagram, and kicking it in Cambridge with all the Harvard kids. The song is the first taste of ALFii’s debut mixtape chock full of FF-VII flips, AVALANCHE, out April 15. The mixtape will also feature Michael Christmas, Latrell James, and plenty of other familiar local voices. Find the full AVALANCHE tracklist below.
Listen to “RubberBandz” here.
- “RubberBandz” (feat. Luke Bar$, Connis, & Donald Grunge)
- “Wildin’” (feat. Lord Felix & Najee Janey)
- “Ain’t Sweet” (feat. Michael Christmas)
- “Goodnight” (feat. Stephon Joseph & Billy Dean Thomas)
- “Barret” (feat. Brandie Blaze, Red Shaydez, & Jiles)
- “Venmo” (feat. Saint Lyor & Jiles)
- “Who’s the bitch now” (feat. Michael Christmas, Latrell James & Oompa)