Mixtape Review: J. Cole – Might Delete Later

Rating: 6.6

J. Cole surprised everyone with the unexpected and unannounced release of Might Delete Later, sparking a frenzy of speculation online. This came after Kendrick Lamar dissed him and Drake on the track (“Like That”), a collaboration with Future & Metro Boomin. As soon as the mixtape hit streaming services, fans immediately gravitated towards the main highlight and final track, (“7 Minute Drill”) where J. Cole responded to Kendrick Lamar; rapping, “He's still doing shows, but fell off like the Simpsons”, suggesting that Kendrick Lamar's prime is fading while he tries to stay relevant through touring. J. Cole continues to rap, “Your first shit was classic, your last shit was tragic/ Your second shit put niggas to sleep, but they gassed it/ Your third shit was massive and that was your prime”. J. Cole boldly and relentlessly confronts Kendrick Lamar, challenging the notion that his discography isn't as flawless as critics and fans claim.

But let's not overlook Might Delete Later amidst the hype of (“7 Minute Drill”). Considered a mixtape rather than an album, this project showcases some of the finest rap songs of the year. Take, for example, (“Pi”) featuring Daylyt & Ab-Soul – a track that truly stands out as a conscious rap song. The nuances and energy of each rapper are palpable, with soulful and impactful lyrics, particularly from Ab-Soul. The instrumental is accompanied by soulful samples and captivating production, making it a soul-searching experience within its concise 5-minute length. However, it's important to address J. Cole's controversial line regarding the transgender community, “Is you a demon or is that demeanor for the 'Gram? Tell us/ They plead the fifth, I'm seeing hints of a trans fella”.

Might Delete Later dropped out of the blue, at a time when Hip-hop is thriving and rappers are making major comebacks. Take ScHoolboy Q's BLUE LIPS, for example. J. Cole delivers a potential AOTY contender, featuring beloved artists like Ari Lennox, Central Cee, Bas, Ab-Soul, and Gucci Mane – they really hold it down throughout the mixtape. Some of these tracks sound fresh and unfamiliar, and the expectations are high. Looking at the producers involved: The Alchemist on (“Stickz N Stonez”), Mike Will Made-It on (“3001”), ATL Jacob & Kuji on (“Fever”) and Conductor Williams & T-Minus on (“7 Minute Drill”) to name a few. You already know the production quality is top-notch. (“Pricey”), produced solely by J. Cole, has a familiar vibe, reminiscent of his previous work, giving those 2018 KOD vibes. Gucci Mane makes a catchy and brief appearance, while Ari Lennox takes the song to another level with her incredible vocals, creating a truly memorable moment. On (“Crocodile Tearz”), we witness J. Cole's weary and uncompromising side. He's truly at the top of his game. The beat feels tailor-made for him, allowing him to deliver witty lines like, “The Fall Off is like Hov droppin' Reasonable Doubt last”.

(“Ready ’24”) featuring Cam'ron has a vibe that reminds me of something The Game would excel at, but Cam'ron still delivers a solid performance. The sample in the instrumental adds a soothing element, making it a perfect track to vibe to depending on your mood. Another standout is (“H.Y.B.”) with Bas and Central Cee, a track that blends drill and hip-hop influences. It might just be Central Cee's strongest rap performance in a while, perhaps since last year's (“On The Radar Freestyle”) with Drake or (“Sprinter”) with Dave.

Might Delete Later does have its weaknesses, even though it's a mixtape. It aims to make a statement, but does so in a fashionable approach, regardless of the current mainstream era. With 12 tracks and a runtime of 43 minutes, it manages to maintain replay value. In a world where most listeners quickly judge a project based on its length, not many are willing to spend an hour or more listening to less mainstream artists, unless it's Drake, Kanye West, or Playboi Carti. However, since Might Delete Later comes from the already successful and established rapper and producer J. Cole, people will definitely pay attention.

Some of these tracks seemed hastily put together to appease fans after the long-awaited response from J. Cole to Kendrick Lamar, particularly the latter (“7 Minute Drill”). So enjoy now, as he might delete later.

Favourite Tracks: “7 Minute Drill”, “H.Y.B.”, “Pi”, “Ready ‘24”, “Pricey” & “Huntin’ Wabbitz”