Review: J. Cole- Born Sinner

Grade:
B

There are very few artists from the new generation of rappers that I cosign. J. Cole is one of the few that makes the cut. Though honestly I'm not familiar with his entire catalog, when I do hear the Carolina representative spit, he rarely disappoints me. So after hearing the solid first single"Power Trip" featuring Miguel and found out he was set to release his second effort on the same day as Kanye, I was wondering if he would be able to avoid the sophomore slump while competing with one of the biggest names in the business. And BOY did he!

Born Sinner was produced by J. Cole almost in it's entirety. Which is refreshing for two reason: first because that means the tracks weren't produced by the producers that does everyone else tracks these days so sonically it sounds different. Secondly, because it shows J. Cole's has range. The album opens up with a tongue and cheek track entitled, "Villuminati", where Cole puts to rest any rumors that he's down with the New World Order since joining the Roc. Then, Cole redoes an Outkast classic on "LAnd of the Snakes" where he flexes his own story telling ability. Later in the album, Cole  taps into his inspirational side with the album's second single featuring the surviving members of TLC, "Crooked Smile". On "Crooked Smile" Cole encourages people to embrace their flaws and allow their inner beauty to outshine their physical shortcomings. Next, was "Let Nas Down" the most talked about non-single song on the album, where Cole tells the story of how he felt he disappointed his idol with some of his career steps. He closes the album with the very soulful and introspective "Born Sinner" featuring James Fauntleroy. Cole digs deep and reflects on his journey to success in the music business.

Overall, Born Sinner is a good album and is possibly one of the best rap albums released in 2013. Other stand out tracks on the album "Chaining Day" and "Rich N****z". If you are looking for a bunch of radio hits and club bangers, you won't get them with this album. This is an album for hip-hop heads so ride in the car with the windows down. Again, J. Cole has yet to disappoint me. Wouldn't go as far as calling myself a fan, but I can definitely appreciate his music and definitely see the potential. As long as he continues to grow artistically, he'll never let Nas down again.

~ Remon