Post- ‘KOD,’ J. Cole returns with a brief, new single, comprised of straight-up bars, “Album of the Year (Freestyle).”

“KOD – album of the year, undebatably / My cadence be the greatest we’ve seen since the late MC whose name was Notorious…” Wow – bold statement.  Just when you thought that you wouldn’t hear anymore from J. Cole following the release of KOD earlier in 2018, he goes and drops a single.  Well, technically a freestyle. “Album of the Year (Freestyle)” finds the rapper spitting over a famous Nas sample, “Oochie Wally”.  Safe to say, it provides perfect fuel for the fire.

Throughout the course of “Album of the Year (Freestyle),” he showcases an excellent flow. ‘Course, we know J. Cole can rap. Here, it’s all about straight bars, no frills, which is cool.  While it could be argued that Cole shows a different side of himself compared to what we heard on KOD, he remains socially conscious – “Now Billy momma want the judge to pardon his addiction / How many black addicts that got caught up in the system.”

Final Thoughts

“Album of the Year (Freestyle)” is just the right length, approaching a skinny 2:20. Keeping this review brief as well, there’s nothing to complain about in the least.  You could make the argument that he doesn’t say anything that necessarily stands out or goes against the grain, but the bars are worthwhile all in all.

J.Cole • Album of the Year (Freestyle) – Single • Dreamville / Roc Nation • Release: 8.10.18

Photo Credits: Dreamville / Roc Nation