Julian Malone – “Letter From A King”

There’s been an alluring theme of aggression (heavy or passive) within the recent run of attractive rap tracks, and whether we ought to accredit Kendrick Lamar with the initiation of the trend or not is besides the point (though should certainly be acknowledged, in any event). It’s been a great year for up-and-coming artists within the genre, and we’d love to see whatever form of energy or motivation is responsible, continue.

The case in point here is not Kendrick, though, but Julian Malone, one of several Chicago rappers inaugurating his own wave within hip-hop circles. His latest track, “Letter From A King”, delves into enticing extrospection, utilizing a smooth, soulful instrumental to convey the myriad lines Malone spits in inspired fashion. It’s got a light tone of Isaiah Rashad in it, which is a truly wonderful thing, but don’t mistake it for the unique blend of obvious passion and restrained aggression that Julian offers.