Flint, Michigan emcee and producer Jon Connor is switching things up for the latest entry in his ambitious The Artist Yahn Freeman series. A veteran who has spent the last two decades cementing his legacy through projects like The Calling, Vinnie Chase, and S.O.S. trilogies, Connor continues to pay homage to his influences while constantly evolving his sound.
After a six-year tenure with Aftermath Entertainment and the shelving of his Vehicle City project, Connor has remained prolific. Following the KLC-produced Food for the Soul and 24, this new installment sees him pivoting to a fresh sonic landscape with producer iRockSays, resulting in a guest-heavy experience.
The project opens with “High Key,” a track that utilizes a trap-influenced intro to address generational disconnects, followed by “I Get’s Down,” which tackles systemic struggles. The record gains momentum as Courtney Bell joins the fold for “The Essence,” a soulful cut that highlights their lyrical chemistry. Freeway also makes an appearance, trading bars with Connor on “My Word.”
The second half of the EP shifts toward a more motivational tone. Tracks like “Stay Up” emphasize the importance of authenticity, while “Glory” serves as a testament to perseverance. The project also features X-Raided on “Held High,” a standout boom-bap track that showcases both artists’ refusal to lose focus. The EP concludes with “At the Top,” a final encouragement for listeners to embrace their own personal journeys.
While the The Artist Yahn Freeman saga has received a divisive reception from the fanbase, the technical execution remains a point of interest. Although this chapter may not reach the same heights as the previous installment produced by Smitti Boi, Connor’s willingness to experiment with new production and a wider array of features is commendable, even if the sheer volume of guests occasionally threatens to overshadow the host.
Score: 6/10