For well over two decades, LL Cool J has been one of the signature artists of Def Jam, rap music's most influential label. (In fact, he once went multi-platinum in the eighties without a music video to support the album.)
Having moved on to a successful career as an actor, James Todd Smith could easily choose to leave the rap game in the hands of a younger generation. Fortunately for hip-hop fans, he is not quite ready to relinquish his position in the industry yet. His new CD, Exit 13, simultaneously shows that he hasn't forgotten his old-school roots and that he can hold his own with any of today's younger lyricists.
"The Baddest Rapper in the History of Rap Itself"
The boastful attitude that brought Cool J to the attention of Def Jam back in the eighties is alive and well on Exit 13. The album is rife with Smith's references to himself as the "G.O.A.T." (Greatest Of All Time) and claims about his mic skills. What separates him from most contemporary rappers, though, is that his lyrical delivery lives up to his claims. His bragging hardly comes across as bravado at all.
"I Need Love"
Smith's soft (and sexual) side is also on display here. "Baby," likely the most radio-friendly single on the disc, is an up-tempo track that (along with its rock remix) should keep club-hoppers dancing for hours. "Feel My Heart Beat" faintly reminds the listener of 50 Cent's "Candy Shop."
In fact, 50 Cent accompanies him on the track. "American Girl" smoothly combines his sense of humor ("I bet Thomas Jefferson would love BET") and his propensity for flirting. Such is a refreshing break from the strip-club anthems that pass for courtship soundtracks these days.
Legislators Love Cool J?
The most pleasant surprise of the disc is "Mr. President," on which Cool J and Wyclef Jean ponder the arguable necessity and inarguable consequences of America's current military involvement. The song is by no means the strongest track on the disc, but it illustrates a social consciousness that is far to seldom seen in contemporary hip-hop.
On the whole, LL Cool J's newest release is an easy album to like. For old and new rap fans alike, the disc feels like a visit with a wise, fun-loving old friend. Fortunate musical travelers will find a trip down Exit 13 to be a welcome vacation from the hip-hop status quo.
Professor Arrington's Grade: B+
