Jackzebra's Hunched Jack Mixtape: Raw Pluggn Wave Unleashed

Emerging from Chengdu, plugg rapper jackzebra has unveiled 'Hunched Jack Mixtape,' his first release on the Surf Gang label. This project highlights jackzebra's strongest and most cohesive production to date, marking a departure from his previous prolific but uneven output. Over the past six years, the 23-year-old MC, born Zhang Zhengkai, has released a vast discography, including albums under his jackapplepeople alias that explored a softer sound.

'Hunched Jack Mixtape' sees jackzebra refining his artistry, pruning back the overgrowth found in his longer past projects. Raised in a Shanghai suburb, his musical journey began in his mid-teens. Encouraged by Chinese cloud rap pioneer Bloodz Boi to rap in Mandarin, Zhang has rapidly improved his craft. Bloodz Boi has even likened him to 'China's Lil B,' noting his significant following outside of China.

The mixtape boasts production from notable artists such as vaporwave veteran James Ferraro and hyperpop artist Glasear. Tracks like 'Leon' deliver ferocious beats with deep bass and sharp snares, complemented by jackzebra's intense vocal delivery. Another standout, 'Run,' features Glasear and Woesum on a vintage trap beat, where jackzebra's growling Mandarin vocals question cowardly subjects.