Not O.K. cover

Not O.K.

Kool A.D. · 2013

43 min · 15 tracks · alternative hip-hop

A playful yet introspective blend of lo-fi beats and unconventional lyrical flows that challenge hip-hop norms.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    V Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Exotic — This track stands out with its catchy hook and playful wordplay, encapsulating Kool A.D.'s distinctive style while addressing themes of cultural identity.
  • →
    Tiger Style — Featuring sharp lyricism and a confident delivery, this track exemplifies Kool A.D.'s ability to blend humor with social commentary, making it a highlight of the album.
  • →
    CNN — This track showcases a more serious tone, addressing media saturation and societal issues through clever metaphors, highlighting Kool A.D.'s range as an artist.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • surreal lyrical exploration
  • short bursts of creativity
  • playful irreverence throughout
  • unexpected twists and turns
  • ideal for spontaneous listening

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward narratives
  • seek polished production quality

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — First solo project post-Das Racist, showcasing a unique hip-hop style and gaining wider recognition.
Themes
cultural identity exploration· media saturation critique· post-Das Racist evolution
Career context
Released in early 2013, Not O.K. marks Kool A.D.'s first solo project following the disbandment of Das Racist, a group that had significantly shaped alternative hip-hop. This album showcases his shift towards a more personal and experimental sound, reflecting both his growth as an artist and his desire to carve out an individual identity in the music landscape.
Stylistic neighbors
Das Racist· Aesop Rock· Open Mike Eagle
New to Kool A.D.? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 Not O.K. 1:24
  • 2 V Start here 2:44
  • 3 Exotic 3:02
  • 4 Fettucini 4:10
  • 5 CNN 3:37
  • 6 Insane Computer Raps 3:08
  • 7 P.L.V.Y.V.H.V.T.3. 2:04
  • 8 Trippy Gurl 2:50
  • 9 Tiger Style 4:39
  • 10 Cuidado 4:07
  • 11 Pass the Milk 3:23
  • 12 Psychotropical 3:31
  • 13 Giggin 0:57
  • 14 Swole 2:59
  • 15 Tears of a Dolphin 1:11

What to play next

63/19
Listen next

63/19

2013

Continues the playful introspection with diverse sounds and lyrical experimentation.
The Palm Wine Drinkard
Go back to

The Palm Wine Drinkard

2012

Sets the stage with a similar lo-fi vibe and unconventional approach.
Full Kool A.D. discography Where to start with Kool A.D. Artists like Kool A.D.
alternative hip-hop

If this landed

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Shabazz Palaces

Explores cultural identity with experimental beats and abstract lyrical flows, similar introspective vibe.

Skelethon

Skelethon

Aesop Rock

Features unconventional lyricism and lo-fi production, with a focus on personal narratives and introspection.

Old

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Danny Brown

Merges playful yet dark themes with eclectic beats, reflecting on identity and societal issues in a unique way.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata