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!

The Incredible True Story Turns 2!

Two years ago on November 13th, Logic released his second studio album The Incredible True Story. I hope his day one fans don't scold me for this, but this is the project that really turned me onto his music. It takes you on a journey with an intriguing story line that takes place within some truly extraordinary tracks. Features include Big Lenbo, Dria, Jesse Boykins III, and Lucy Rose. I did some research on the album, and found that the underlying plot of the project is actually part of a pretty mind-blowing story inspired by filmmaker Quentin Tarantino. What stands out to me is the vibrant production in tracks like "City of Stars." It gives off that sci-fi vibe, that I feel really speaks to Logic's experimental nature in his art. The lyricism showcased on this album is also "incredible." I enjoy the skits, my favorite being the one at the end of "Fade Away." When I heard it was the anniversary of this album, I had to write about it. It's definitely one of my go-to projects. It's so hard for me to pick favorite tracks off of this album, but I'll go with "Young Jesus" and "Innermission." If you haven't already, check this one out. Thanks for reading!

NHYN Interview!

On November 12th, I had the chance to interview American born and Dubai based artist, NHYN. NHYN is an emerging artist with two solo projects, Pharaogamo and his latest, Dwaynism. His work incorporates a unique style, a transparency that allows listeners to feel the emotions that drives the music. In this interview, he gives us a detailed perspective on his life as an artist. We discuss his beginnings, his inspirations, and his visions for the future. Check out his latest work "Bounce It" and "Wait."

LAMON: I know you've mentioned this in earlier works, but for new listeners, what led you into becoming an artist?

NHYN: I would say dropping out of school. Prior to dropping out, I was making music everyday. In my room making beats, or if I was in class I'd be writing rhymes. I realized obviously I don't need to be here, maybe I need to go do something in music. So that's what led me to drop out and chase this dream. I actually had a conversation with my mentor before dropping out. I was like "yo, you think it would be a good idea to drop out of school?" (laughs). Everybody kept telling me it's a bad idea, saying I'm gonna fail, and giving me rates about the success of dropouts. I was like forget it, just going to try it out and take a risk. 

LAMON: Did moving to Dubai have any impact on your art?

NHYN: Definitely, my lifestyle has changed. I have new content to write about. It's different dealing with foreign women. Some just know you're black and from America. Driving crazy cars, or seeing crazy cars and mansions. It's like I got the lifestyle, before I got the actual money. I got used to having a driver, maids, and little small things like that. It definitely feels like I'm really rich (laughs). Living over here in Dubai gave me freedom to create without stressing. 

LAMON: Is it different looking at current events in the United States from an outside perspective?

NHYN: Yeah, people over here usually worry about their own problems. Whenever I hear something happening back in the United States, I'm just like "man, America is crazy." It's a lot going on over there, but over here there's like nothing going on. Sometimes it sounds like war is going on back home. It's different over here. They really appreciate our culture though. They listen to a lot of rap too. They mostly listen to older rap though. They haven't really caught on with the new wave of music. I feel like that's my job over here, to put them on some new music. 

LAMON: How big of a role does your team play in supporting you art?

NHYN: My team plays a pretty big role. Currently we're planning, and just trying to take it to the next level. 

LAMON: Are there any particular artists that inspire you?

NHYN: I listen to a lot of Andre 3000 and Kanye West. Of course, Kendrick Lamar. I hate listening to Kendrick Lamar, because I don't wanna sound like Kendrick but I love his music. A few of my friends also make some really dope music. My friend Lawrence, who I grew up with as a kid and we reconnected when I moved to Atlanta. Also my homie Millic who lives in Korea, and he's a really dope artist. 

LAMON: Artists do so many things nowadays, you can't really put a label on it. 

NHYN: It has to be that way. We have to do all the work. Even with business, we have to be the artists and the business owners. You have to learn to sell yourself, which is cool. It's a learning experience. I'm just glad I went to business school, even though I dropped out (laughs).

LAMON: Let's talk about the creative process. When crafting a song, do you already have a direction planned? Or is it more based on the vibe in the studio?

NHYN: Sometimes I have an idea of what I want to do before I go into the studio. When I turn on a beat, sometimes that idea can turn into something totally new. Basically, the vibe is everything. I can go in motivated to make one song, and then make another song that I end up liking more. Getting in front of the microphone, and putting on the headphones is where you really create the vibe. Also just hearing your voice. I can write a song back home, and then go into the studio and not like how it sounds at all. Hearing myself on the microphone really is what determines if I like a song or not. 

LAMON: Is there a release to be able to express yourself through art?

NHYN: Yeah, it's definitely a bit of release. A lot of frustration, but definitely release. Because once you express yourself, then you have to be bold enough to put out the music. It's like I made this song and I like it, but will they like it? You stress about that. A lot of times that's what takes me so long to put out music. I have to go through the psychological process, and be mentally ready to put it out. You have to have that mentality to put it out and say "let's see how it works." I actually had "Bounce It" for a whole year. I debated on whether I should put it out. You know what's crazy, I actually dropped "Bounce It" a month before I told anybody I put it out. I only did that to see the feedback I would get if no one knew about it. I got a lot of great feedback from it, and people were sending me messages saying they heard it. It got a good reaction, so I decided to really put it out there. 

LAMON: The thing about art is that it really gives you freedom for self-expression.

NHYN: You've gotta really go with your instincts. If I would've really went with my intuition, I probably would've let it go a long time ago. I'm learning that now, to really trust my instincts. I'm trying to push myself to get past myself. I wanna be able to release more music, and I want people to know what's going on in my life. 

LAMON: What's the meaning behind the name NHYN?

NHYN: NHYN (nine) represents the number for universal love. That's why the logo I created is a heart. It's a complex heart like a puzzle, because love is difficult. I felt like NHYN is a representation of what I'm trying to do in the industry. I'm trying to be that piece that brings everyone together. Whether it's helping a producer in the studio, or a homeless person on the street. I'm trying to be that vessel that can really relate to people, that they can say "he really cares about me and my well-being." Nine represents completeness, like being spiritually complete. That's how it feels, because I made the album Dwaynism which is talking about self-love and self-worth. I had to basically relocate to Dubai and go through that process of looking at who I am, and what I'm trying to do. NHYN represents me. 

LAMON: Are there any artists that you wish to work with?

NHYN: Andre 3000 for sure, Erykah Badu, definitely Kanye West, and Frank Ocean. These are artists that do a lot for me, I really like these people. Andre 3000 is the best rapper in my opinion, I feel like people forget about him until he drops a verse. When he drops a verse, it's a big deal. 

LAMON: As an emerging artist, how do you maintain humility as your publicity grows?

NHYN: I don't know if I'm humble at all. I'm just very introverted. I don't really think in terms of publicity growth, just individual growth. I'm not too pressed about fame, I don't really care about that. The bigger I go is just a bigger platform. I wouldn't say I'm humble, I wish I was humble. Behind closed doors I'm probably boastful. Then I'm just quiet, because I don't want to come off as boastful (laughs). 

LAMON: Are there any milestones that you plan to accomplish throughout your career?

NHYN: I want a Grammy, but only because I've been working on my speech for awhile. I've been preparing for like four years.

LAMON: Hopefully we hear it one day.

NHYN: It's definitely going to be a dope speech. I think I only get like thirty seconds anyway, so I'm trying to make the best thirty seconds ever. Kanye West has the best Grammy speech right now, so I'm trying to top him. 

LAMON: Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?

NHYN: Stay in school, don't chase your dreams (laughs). Nah, but I would say learn the business. That's the main thing if you're trying to get into music, learn the business. You might end up losing a lot of money, because no one is going to treat you better than you treat yourself. Always remember that you are a brand, and you have to treat it as such. It's a marathon, and not a quick race. If you're really into music for the long run, it's definitely a marathon. There's a lot of ups and downs, but they're all important for your journey. 

LAMON: I'm aware that you studied audio engineering, what role did that play on your development as an artist? 

NHYN: For starters, I know what quality sounds like. I know what to look for when I'm making a record, what sounds pleasing to the ear. Going to Los Angeles for audio engineering allowed me to meet other aspiring artists. It allowed me to network with them, and meet other people that wanted to help out. That's what led me to moving to Dubai. Studying audio engineering in LA really catapulted my career. 

LAMON: What impact do you plan to make with your career? 

NHYN: Spreading love and teaching people. I also want to add to the culture, I feel like I have a lot to bring. I've been through a lot in these 25 years, and I feel like I have wisdom. I'm not where I want to be yet, but I just have to be patient. You have to take risks for that big reward.  

Thanks for reading!

Laugh Now, Fly Later Review!

On November 7th, Wiz Khalifa released a project titled Laugh Now, Fly Later. It consists of ten tracks, with only one feature from Casey Veggies. This project is keeping the fans satisfied until the release of his upcoming album Rolling Papers 2. In this one, Wiz operates in his classic style. Relaxed bars that make reference to his herbs, affluence, and carefree lifestyle. He also takes the opportunity to advertise his product, KK. His lyrics stress the theme of making the most out of life, and not caring about the opinions of other people. Some artists will abandon the style that attracted fans to them. I don't see this happening with Wiz. He knows his formula, and he keeps his work consistent. This is a solid project. My top track on the project is "Figure It Out." He gives listeners some advice on that track, which I won't spoil for you. It's a good project to vibe out to on your aux cord. Check it out. Thanks for reading, and remember to enjoy life! 

Boomerang Review!

On November 10th, artist, Jidenna released an EP titled Boomerang. The project includes six tracks, with features from Quavo, Wale, Tiwa Savage, Maleek Berry, Sarkodie, Burna Boy, and Dot Cromwell. It is his first project since his debut studio album The Chief. The EP includes rhythmic songs, like title track "Boomerang" and "Spy Candy." He also includes the remixes of his hits "Bambi" and "Little Bit More", with tracks titled "Bambi Too" and "Little Bit More (Remix)." I've always appreciated the versatility of his art. He has the ability to rhyme smoothly over tracks, and the ability to create vibrant party records. He approaches music with a unique style of sophistication. Not too many artists are rapping about rocking suits. I'd characterize him as a smooth criminal. Calm and collected on the surface, but he's still a savage under the radar. You'll notice this too, if you take a look at his lyrics. My favorite on this project is the opening track "Decibels", the production and cultured lyrics makes for a nice song to vibe too. Overall, it's a fun project to listen (and dance) to. Check it out. Thanks for reading, and remember to enjoy life!

Without Warning Review!

On Halloween, artists Offset, 21 Savage, and Metro Boomin dropped a surprise collaborative project titled Without Warning. It consists of ten tracks, with guest appearances from Quavo and Travis Scott. It's rare that such industry giants would drop a project "without warning." It caught me off guard, but it was a reflex for me to throw my headphones on when I received word of the project. It's definitely a treat for 21 Savage fans, coming off the success of the well-received Issa Album. Likewise for Offset fans, who are anticipating the Culture 2 album from the rapper's group, Migos. It's an interesting combination of artists, but I'm impressed with how well 21 Savage and Offset are able to blend on the project. 21 Savage has space for his ferocious lyrical style, while Offset is able to showcase his renowned flow over mastermind production by Metro Boomin. As with anything by 21 Savage, you'll hear some relentless bars that show no concern for human life, as evident in the track "My Choppa Hate N-----." The project is filled with bangers, my favorites being the rough "Rap Saved Me" and the smooth "Ric Flair Drip." If you want to turn up, or even if you just want to kick back and vibe to some dope tracks, I think you should give this album a listen. Thanks for reading, and remember to enjoy life!

4eva Is A Mighty Long Time Review!

On October 27th, Mississippi artist, Big K.R.I.T. released his third studio album 4eva Is A Mighty Long Time. The project is lengthy, as a double album with 22 tracks. Features include T.I., Lloyd, UGK, CeeLo Green, Sleepy Brown, Joi, Jill Scott, Keyon Harrold, Bilal, Robert Glasper, Kenneth Whalum, and Burniss Earl Travis II. The project comes much anticipated, after almost three years since the release of the artist's second studio album, Cadillactica. The production and flow of the project clearly stays true to K.R.I.T's southern roots. I appreciate the originality, lyricism, and overall southern vibe of the album. I was watching K.R.I.T's The Breakfast Club interview the other day, and he stated that he doesn't listen to outside music during the creative process. This just demonstrates the devotion he gives into making his art stand out. The lyrical content illustrates the self-reflection and spiritual growth that K.R.I.T. underwent while crafting this project. I won't spoil it for you, but he mentions the many exterior, as well as interior struggles, he faces as an artist. I highly recommend this album, although I must admit I have some bias being a southerner myself. I would consider it to be among my top albums of 2017. My two favorite tracks have to be "Get Away" and "Bury Me In Gold." I'll definitely be vibing to this album for the foreseeable future. Thanks for reading, and remember to enjoy life!