When I first started this blog a couple weeks ago, I did it with the intention of writing primarily about sports. As it turns out, I actually have a lot of other interests! What a surprise because it seems like I don’t do anything except watch, listen to, and read about sports 24/7. It’s good to know that sports haven’t completely taken over my life (yet).
With that being said, I’d like to talk a little about J. Cole’s new album, 2014 Forest Hills Drive. It’s his third album and upon the first listen, potentially his worst. Before you call me a hater or tell me I don't know anything about music, hear me out first. I’m not saying that the album itself is bad, I just think Cole World: The Sideline Story and Born Sinner are better.
Just because I think this album is J. Cole’s worst doesn't mean it isn’t better than 99% of the rap albums that came out this year, because it probably is. I set the bar high with J. Cole. He’s one of the best in the game and a personal favorite. So just to clarify, this new album is still very, very good. If his albums, however, had legs and ran a race to determine which is best, 2014 Forest Hills Drive would finish in last place.
This is obviously just my personal opinion so take it with a grain of salt, but only a couple of songs really jumped out at me. I judge albums — and in particular, the songs on albums — by their: lyrics, beats, creativity and general flow (in no particular order). If a song doesn’t jump out to me upon first listen, I’m probably never going to love the song. It’s not the best way to judge and interpret music but that’s how I’ve always done it. As a reference, some of my favorite J. Cole songs are: “Lights Please,” “Lost Ones,” “Nobody’s Perfect,” “Crooked Smile,” “Born Sinner,” and “Let Nas Down.”
There are a few songs on this album that I really enjoyed; “Fire Squad,” “Love Yourz,” and “Apparently.” All of these songs fit my criteria as to what makes a song good/great. As always, J Cole murders the lyrics on these specific tracks. Then again, there aren’t many songs where he doesn’t murder it lyrically. Sure, he has corny punch lines here and there but what rapper doesn’t? He’s a a lyrical genius and he puts that talent on full display.
I won’t break down the songs and their meanings because I want you all to listen to them for yourselves. As he often does, J. Cole tells a lot of stories through this album that people can relate to. He intertwines his childhood, past experiences and struggles and you can really feel that when you listen to him. His stories range from his road to success in “03 Adolescence,” all the way to something as simple as losing his virginity in “Wet Dreamz.” It takes talent to be a great story teller and J. Cole is one of the best in the game.
I’m not an expert on rap — or music in general — but who is? It’s all a matter of opinion. You either like a song/album or you don’t different. Different music appeals to different people. I guess you could argue that numbers determine how good an album really is but not a lot of people would say Iggy Azalea is a better rapper than J. Cole because she sold more albums in 2014.
I’m sure this album will sell and be well liked among J. Cole fans but I thought I would grade it for those who haven’t listened to it. All in all, I’d give 2014 Forest Hills Drive a solid B or 7/10. It wasn’t a classic but still, an impressive album nonetheless.
Here's "Apparently" if you want a taste of the album
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