KOD Review!

On April 20, 2018, J. Cole released his fifth studio album titled, KOD. The album came rather unexpectedly, with Cole only giving fans about a week to prepare for the project. Through his Twitter account, Cole announced the album with a tweet that read:

New album. KOD 4/20

— J. Cole (@JColeNC) April 17, 2018

Around the same time, Cole announced surprise meet and greets for fans in New York and London. Each event turned out to be a listening session for the album. Wide speculation erupted regarding the meaning of the album's title, KOD. J. Cole responded to this confusion with a tweet that read:

KOD. 3 meanings.

Kids on Drugs
King Overdosed
Kill Our Demons

The rest of the album I leave to your interpretation.

— J. Cole (@JColeNC) April 19, 2018

Upon release of the tracklist, fans were shocked to see two tracks listed with features credited to an artist named kiLL edward. This came as a surprise to people who knew J. Cole for going platinum with no features on his two previous albums, 2014 Forest Hills Drive and 4 Your Eyez Only. After thorough investigation, fans found little evidence of anyone named kiLL edward. However, a single track titled "Tidal Wave (just a little reference)"  appeared on streaming services, which fans soon found out to be J. Cole's alter ego.


With everything surrounding the album, its release was highly anticipated through its few days of promotion. I for one, had no idea of what to expect from this project. We've seen Cole go in a variety of artistic directions through the years, so it was interesting to see what messages he wanted to send with KOD. Tuning in on the midnight of its release, I was ready for the thought-provoking introspective tracks that J. Cole's music often provides. The album consists of twelve tracks that deal with various themes. Some of the subjects Cole talks about include dealing with pain, drug culture, taxes, temptation, and much more. I was impressed by Cole's production throughout the album. He includes more fast-paced tracks like "KOD" and "ATM", which distinguishes this project from the laid-back vibes of his two previous albums. Lyrically, the album paints a powerful picture. Cole possesses a unique gift for storytelling and speaking for underrepresented groups. I've listened to the album several times since its initial release. Each time I find something else to digest. I feel Hip-Hop needed this cultural criticism coming from a respected figure like J. Cole. On the track "1985- Intro to "The Fall Off"", Cole rips through an unidentified young rapper whose apparently been playing around his name. Fans have their theories of who the song may be towards, but it's all speculation at this point. As the album has only been out a day, it will be exciting to see what visuals and more come from its release. The video for "ATM" was released on the day of the album, which is definitely interesting to watch.



KOD is a great listen in my opinion. Through the album, you're taken inside of Cole's experiences and given his perspective of the world. Definitely give it a listen. I'll be vibing out to this one for awhile. My favorite tracks are "Kevin's Heart" and "FRIENDS". Thanks for reading!

Illmatic Turns 24!

On April 19, 1994, Nas released his masterful debut album, Illmatic. The timeless ten-track project is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all-time. With hits like "N.Y. State of Mind" to "One Love", Illmatic certainly stakes its claim as a monumental project within the Hip-Hop community. Even outside of music, Illmatic has been praised in academia. The album was selected in Harvard's library as part of the institution's Hip-Hop archive. Likewise, Harvard has named a fellowship in honor of Nas. This rich body of work has shown how we can begin to view Hip-Hop intellectually. With vivid storytelling and poetic delivery, Nas invites listeners into his life as a youth in Queensbridge. Each time I listen to Illmatic, I can close my eyes and picture myself riding through New York. The album's complex subject matter and diction speaks to the wisdom and maturity that Nas possessed at this early stage of his career. Considering the album was released when he was twenty, Nas established himself as a truly unique artist with this debut project. Features include Az, Olu Dara, and Q-Tip. The production of the album gives you that early '90s east-coast vibe. Production credits include DJ Premier, Large Professor, Pete Rock, Q-Tip, L.E.S., and Nas himself. Illmatic in my view, stands as more than music. It's an experience that pulls you in, gives you knowledge, and allows you to appreciate the complexity of true Hip-Hop. I often listen to the album while writing papers, because Nas will spit out sophisticated words that I can use in my next sentence. If you call yourself a fan of Hip-Hop without having listened to this album, I have to say you've played yourself. On this day, tune in and listen to Nas as he graces the mic with "mechanical movement" on the masterpiece of an album that is, Illmatic. My favorite tracks are "The World Is Yours" and "Halftime". Thanks for reading!

Reflecting on Jackie Robinson Day

Often times in life, we face moments in which our character is tested. There are times when we must think beyond ourselves and immediate desires, to consider the ripple effect of our actions. It is a rough journey, where obstacles of fear and self-doubt must be overcome. These are the moments that separate the hero from the commoner. Reflecting on examples of these moments is important, as it inspires us to act courageously when our own character is tested. On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson faced such a test when he took the field in his Major League Baseball debut. Coming out of the Brooklyn Dodgers locker room, Robinson was making perhaps the most monumental entrance into a sports contest. This would be the game where he broke the racial barrier that existed in baseball during the time. We can only imagine the type of thoughts that raced through Robinson's mind at this moment. He was facing the expectations to represent his community, to withstand physical and verbal abuse, in addition to the pressure of performing well in his first MLB game. It takes a person of tremendous character to respond to such a task. This day transcends sports, as an honor to all of those who have worked to break barriers. When I think of Jackie Robinson, I am reminded of the composure that it takes to make a difference despite adversity. Had he not maintained composure throughout the many slurs and pitches aimed at his head, he would not only have held himself back, but also the great multitude of black players and people that stood on his shoulders. Each time he made a hit or stole a base, the impact was much greater than a simple boost to his stats. He showed that when provided the opportunity, people can excel in anything, regardless of the labels placed on them by society. Jackie Robinson's legacy stands as a testament to the power of character and how individual actions can affect the circumstances of others. When he took the field in 1947, Jackie Robinson stepped up to the plate and swung to break a glass ceiling for baseball and humanity. 

Wasted Talent Review!

On April 13th, Jim Jones released his seventh studio album, Wasted Talent. It comes seven years since the release of his last album, Capo, which was released in 2011. Wasted Talent consists of eighteen tracks, which include three listed as bonuses. The project features Jadakiss, Trav, Mozzy, YFN Lucci, Alexza, Eric Billinger, Ball Greezy, 5am, Yo Gotti, Axel Leon, Cam'ron, Lil Durk, and Juelz Santana. With this one, Jim Jones asserts a powerful return to the game. His lyrics reflect the contemplation and wisdom that comes from a period of hiatus. Throughout the project, he touches on lessons learned from his past, realities of fame and fortune, as well as his thoughts on current social issues. He vividly describes his days in the projects and how he made it out. In tracks like "Head Off", he talks about serving as an inspiration for others to know that they can make it out as well. I appreciate the way he is able to blend past experiences with current topics throughout the project. He can quickly transition from being on the block to driving a Ferrari. With his extensive career, it's interesting to hear his perspective on the current state of Hip-Hop. You can sense the personal growth in his music, while telling that he isn't too far removed from the New York streets that built him. This project shows you what happens when a veteran takes his time to produce a quality product. It's always refreshing to hear solid bars, and this project certainly gives you that. My favorite tracks are "Gotta Play the Game" and "Epitome". Thanks for reading!

Dex Meets Dexter Review!

On April 6th, Famous Dex released his debut album titled, Dex Meets Dexter. The album consists of fourteen tracks, with features from Drax Project, Wiz Khalifa, A$AP Rocky, and Diplo. Throughout the project, Dex offers his distinct rhythmic flow over a variety of dynamic beats. His lyrics seem to take a carefree approach and provide a rock star aesthetic. He showcases his range on this album, going from laid-back tracks like "PROVE IT" to more hype songs like "CHUMP". The project is filled with energy and makes for good music to turn up to. Famous Dex definitely represents the younger generation of rap. As seen throughout this project, his music is focused on living for the moment and enjoying the material wealth that comes with stacking money. Reading the track list, I was familiar with two songs, "JAPAN" and "PICK IT UP" featuring A$AP Rocky. It's a fun project to listen to and you'll find it hard not to dance along with its rich production. My favorite tracks on the album are "LIGHT" and "TAKE HER". Thanks for reading!

Invasion of Privacy Review!

On April 6th, Cardi B released her debut studio album titled, Invasion of Privacy. The album consists of thirteen tracks with features from 21 Savage, Bad Bunny, Chance the Rapper, J Balvin, Kehlani, Migos, SZA, and YG. The album has performed well commercially, with the milestone of being certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on the first day of its release. Cardi B's lyrics are powerful in how they vividly express her personality. She approaches music with honesty, which makes her art both entertaining and relatable. Throughout the project, you'll hear her frequently reference life before the fame in tracks like "Money Bag". When you listen to some of her songs, you almost feel as if you've gotten to know her. Her lyrics are a window that give you a clear perspective of her life. For instance, in the song "Be Careful", she expresses her struggle dealing with infidelity in her relationship by painting an honest conversation between her and her partner. The album is also packed with club bangers, including tracks like "She Bad" and the hit singles, "Bartier Cardi" and "Bodak Yellow". The production of the album is artfully composed with several tracks that you can dance or nod your head to. It's one of the most talked about projects of the year, so definitely check it out. I enjoyed listening to this project and I look forward to seeing where Cardi goes from here. My favorite track on the album is "Best Life". Thanks for reading!