This is the sixth studio-length record from Flint, Michigan emcee/producer Jon Connor. He’s been on a roll for the past 20 years, including The Calling, Vinnie Chase, and the SOS trilogy, as well as the World’s Finest series that paid homage to some of Jon’s influences, Redemption ”, “While You Were Sleeping” and “Unconscious State”. He even signed with Aftermath Entertainment/Interscope Records for 6 years before leaving after Vehicle City was eventually shelved and ended III with the release of Food for the Soul.
“We’re Gonna Be Ok” opens with soulful trap, bringing optimism to anyone feeling uncertain ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration in a few weeks, while “413” takes it to the basement Credit goes to DJ Silk for talking about refusing to stop until he was announced. “I’m Tryin'” triumphantly expands on the previous collaboration’s themes into an effort, and following the “Nikell for the Soul” interlude, Daylyt-featuring “Everyday” finds them both shouting out their man.
Jag joins forces with Jon on “Evolution of Amazing” to bring trap flare back to the table as they talk about how their greatness evolved into what it was before “Red Velvet” starring Stalley, bonding the two in a calmly paced conversation Bring the fakes to where they are without even speaking a word. “Take Flight” celebrates the jealousy and hatred that drives him to raise his game and see how far we can go every day on the jazzy “New Day.”
Following the episode of the same name, The Vibes, starring Dizzy Wright, moves into a more delicious flourish, tackling familiar themes of love and furthering together with their respective partners, while They Wonder, starring Locksmith, is about going through it all. . “Over & Over” keeps the beat raw, reminding people that there’s nothing new under the sun, but then “Double Murda” features terminology that shows off their war-ready hardcore side, referencing the previous 6 World Wrestling Entertainment Hall of Famer and Intercontinental Champion Randy Savage.
“So Much Pressure” calls on everyone to help each other as we all struggle to move on as we age, and after the “Night” episode, “Great Design (The Key Element of Love)” talks about people spending Time to learn another side of God’s greatest design. “Something Dope About You” speaks lovingly of his romantic interest in making her smile, while MRK SX’s “Heaven on Earth” calmly talks about building your own paradise.
The song “Blind Eye View” furthers the final leg of Food for the Soul, once again dipping into trap and refusing to back down, showing that he doesn’t know exactly why he sees the world the way he does and ending with this jazzy rap The form ties it all together, advising the listener to stay in control and take immediate action to chase your dreams, believe half of what you see, and question half of what you’re told in life.
Rather than resist trying to do more like he did last year on III and reward the listener with something that’s not too hard to digest, he lets everyone come back musically and help you along by articulating ideas . If he were to release “24,” produced by Beats by the Pound member KLC, as announced three years ago, I believe it would be the most important material of his career.
Score: 7/10
