[rating=8.00]
J. Cole speaks to his generation on his new album KOD Which stands for “Kids on Drugs,” “King Overdose,” and “Kill Our Demons.” KOD couldn’t hold better significance than it does right now within hip-hop culture. If you pay any attention to how strategic Cole is with album releases, he has proven routinely that timing is impeccable. Due to the fact there isn’t much quality hip-hop music right now, Cole rises to the occasion and releases a 12-track anthem for the current generation.
At this point, Cole has established himself as a highly respected vocal leader in hip-hop and he immediately addresses the new generation of rappers influencing the youth to be druggies and even junkies. Cole even takes a look into the microscope to reflect on personal experiences. One “Once An Addict (Interlude),” Cole distinctly paints the picture of his mother’s battle with drinking.
The reverb on “Photograph” lures you in deeply as Cole explains the damage an Instagram like can create and “ATM” serves as what may be one of Cole’s catchiest singles to date. Although, it’s not entirely new hearing Cole “machine-gun” rap, but with the up-tempo instrumental as well this could end up being a big club banger. He just released his new video for “ATM” about a week ago and it thoroughly expresses the message of materialism that Cole was attempting to get across. The repeating lyric in the chorus of “Count it up, Count it up, Count it up, Count it, can’t take it when you die, but you can’t live without it,” is so key to the song’s message.
There is so much that could escape you while listening to this album if you don’t fully capture the lyrics. The last song to highlight is “Kevin’s Heart.” On this song, Cole expresses how difficult it can be to be in a relationship while being famous, especially when you’re used to messing things in life up. The last 30 seconds of the song, bring it all together. Cole says, “I love her I don’t wanna lose her, I’m selfish, I know that I use her, My ego gets stroked and I bruise her, My actions I know they confusin’, At home I look happy as usual, On the road I’m a mack, I’m a chooser, I’m an addict, I’m maskin’ that, Kevin’s Heart.”
Overall, KOD takes the listener back in time to his 2013 album Born Sinner. Obviously, a lot better in terms of quality, but in terms of the message, there were noticeable similarities. What you can take from this album is to “Choose Wisely,” as Cole helps turn bad situations/mistakes into learning tools for the current generation while rocking nappy dreads and some clearly worn Jordan 1’s. Again, addressing two major issues within the hip-hop culture that needs the attention.
