Washington, DC rapper J Ru recently released his most ambitious project to date – the full-length album, XIV XXVIII. So what does he bring to the table on his new record?
J Ru Brings it on New Album XIV XXVIII
Appropriately titled, The Opener, J Ru introduces listeners to his style on the opening track of his new record, XIV XXVIII. There’s something whimsical about his delivery that instantly puts the listener on notice. At times, it sounds like he’s delivering his bars in a character of his own creation – a la Eminem’s Slim Shady.
But, it’s best not to let J Ru’s cartoonish delivery fool you – his rhymes certainly hit hard. And, combining his lyrical prowess with the trap-style beats, the opening track from his new album is definitely a banger. Moreover, it’s enough of a hook to keep listeners listening.
J Ru Not Your Typical Rapper
J Ru says on his new album that he didn’t intend to be a rapper – almost like he fell into it by accident. And in that regard, his sound isn’t anything cookie-cutter. The way he delivers his verses gives the impression that he recorded his latest album in an insane asylum while in a straight jacket – and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
There’s something in his delivery that makes you think he has more than a few screws loose – and that certainly adds to the ambiance and atmosphere of his new record in a unique way. J Ru stays in character. And whether that’s his authentic self, an aspect of his subconscious, or a different persona altogether that he slips into to deliver his bars, it adds to the listening experience as a whole.
New Album Worth a Listen
XIV XXVIII isn’t the typical rap record you’d expect to hear in the club on a Saturday night. Instead, J Ru’s brand of rap is the introspective sort that makes you contemplate life and your place in the grand scheme of things.
Meanwhile, that’s not to say that this record lacks groove. On the contrary, there are a lot of old-school samples that give this record a throwback feel.
Certainly, J Ru’s cartoonish delivery may not be for everyone – as it can be a bit grating at times. But, if you can get past that, there are indeed some gems on this record – a solid effort overall.
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