Perhaps the lethargic flow and distinct voice of rapper Kodak Black will appeal to some on “Calling My Spirit,” the record falls short by my estimation.

“Readin’ through my third eye, ‘cause I got ‘Tunnel Vision’ / Had to open my mind, then I opened a Benz…” Sigh, when I think of rapper Kodak Black, two words come to mind – acquired taste.  One of the things that’s actually unique about Black is his tone of voice.  Sure, it’s ‘acquired’ as aforementioned, as is his flow and bars, but it’s worth noting.  Black, who never seems to disappear too long without releasing new music, returns with single, “Calling My Spirit.”

One of the best attributes of “Calling My Spirit” is the production.  If nothing else, Kodak Black has a fine backdrop to work with, even if nothing about it is game changing or incredibly distinct.  Still, Black has the ‘fuel for the fire’ with Southside and Jake One producing.  That said, Black still has to rap, and that’s where “Calling My Spirit” is merely so-so.  The flow is incredibly lethargic, not adding much oomph to the already grinding tempo.  Furthermore, it’s not until the end of the first verse that Kodak expands the rhythm of his rhymes, which aren’t particularly profound in the first place.

“I keep a pole in the whip

‘Cause a lot of these ni**as out here envy me

It ain’t no ho in the clique

None of my dawgs got fuckboy tendencies…”

Yada, yada, yada. The second verse of this brief cut offers more of the same – flexing with not an iota of substance.  “I put my Hublot on rocks / I put Moscato on rocks / Where I’m from we don’t say opp / Shoot at an OV, shoot at a cop.”

Final Thoughts

Here’s the deal.  If you’re a fan of Kodak Black, then you’ll probably be onboard with “Calling My Spirit.” If you’re not, you’ll likely take a listen, possibly roll your eyes, and merely say, “On to the Next One.” Some will like it, but as for me and my ears, I pass.

Kodak Black » Calling My Spirit [Single] » Atlantic » Release: 12.3.18

Photo Credit: Atlantic