By Jack Major
Staff Writer
Known as the “first rapper to go double platinum with no features,” J Cole’s newest release, “4 Your Eyez Only” is his best album to date with a blend of smooth alternative beats, seldom-heard vocals from Cole, and complex lyrics that coalesce to tell a deep narrative.
J Cole is a 31-year old rapper and producer from Fayetteville, North Carolina. He is known as a lyricist who does not seek mainstream success, but rather seeks to deliver a message through his albums. He has released four mixtapes and four studio albums to critical acclaim.
“4 Your Eyez Only” was co-released by Dreamville Records, Roc Nation, and Interscope Records on December 9. It features production from Cole himself as well as the famous producer Elite.
The simple yet enchanting beats draw the listener in and allow the lyrics to stand out. Ethereal beats that fuse flutes, pianos, drums, and hi-hats bring a relaxed vibe to the tracks. A notable example of this is on the song “Immortal.” It features a flute backdrop with hi-hats and drums mixed in throughout the song. This gives the listener a full and unique beat.
Cole’s singing throughout the album lacks well-developed vocals but the raw emotion in his vocals makes them even better. The album’s intro song, “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” with scratchy lower-pitched vocals while contemplating his life’s worth. The experimental singing adds a depth to the album that would not be present if it was only rapping.
His storytelling ability is on display as he weaves his life story with that of a recurring character who is based on a real-life friend of Cole’s. Cole does this exceptionally well on the song “4 Your Eyez Only,” in which he tells the full story of his friend who was involved in crime and gangs in his youth and eventually was killed. Cole’s vivid storytelling and experiences add a unique component to the album.
Throughout this album, he reflects on fame and how it is not what he imagined. J Cole exceeds expectations with an unreal story-telling album that utilizes dynamic beats and intricate rhymes to complement the story.
The album is available to stream on services including Spotify and Apple Music. It is available for $9.99 on iTunes.
Leave a Reply