Dreamville – Revenge Of The Dreamers II (Album Review)

DISCLAIMER: The homeless man/Nick Van Exel-looking boy on the album cover has absolutely no bearing or impact on the quality of music that is reflected on this album… now let’s begin.

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TOP 5

5. Folgers Crystal

Sometimes, I just want to ask J. Cole, “Who the f**k drank your apple juice?” One of those moments definitely came after hearing his verse on “Folgers Crystals.” Despite being handed a mystical, hazy beat that I honestly can’t stand, Cole absolutely blacks out, delivering an intense, unfiltered performance. He raps about his power to heal like Bob Marley, reflects on misguided people moving through his life, and confidently reasserts himself as one of the best to ever touch a mic. There’s even a line about having “cold-ass bullets” in his arsenal. Damn, Cole is a killer like that?

What makes this track unforgettable is simple: I love when J. Cole raps like he’s got something to prove, and this was one of those times.

4. Caged Bird

“Caged Bird” is a lyrical exercise in storytelling. J. Cole and Omen guide listeners through a dark, emotionally intense journey that centers on the harsh realities of incarceration. They paint vivid pictures of life behind bars, while also highlighting the emotional weight that families carry when their loved ones are imprisoned.

The song is incredibly heartfelt, blending raw lyricism with empathy and depth. It’s the kind of track that stays with you, not just because of the rhyme schemes, but because of the truth it tells.

3. Still Slummin’ (Ft. Lute)

This track is a gem. It has a classic old-school hip-hop vibe that instantly transports you back to the genre’s golden era. Lute lays down an introspective and honest narrative, reflecting on his journey trying to get signed while wrestling with the lingering temptations of the streets. His storytelling is raw, heartfelt, and full of depth, making every bar hit that much harder. This one definitely hits the soul — I’m really feeling it.

2. Backseat (Ft. Ari Lennox & Cozz)

I love this kind of soul-infused R&B! Ari Lennox truly channels Erykah Badu with her soothing, expressive voice. Also, it’s always refreshing when an artist can take a simple, real-life scenario—like hooking up in the backseat of a car (which, let’s be honest, most people have experienced)—and turn it into a vivid, cinematic moment through sound.

Cozz complements her energy perfectly, solidifying the track with an aggressive and emotionally charged verse that adds depth and contrast. Together, they bring raw honesty and irresistible groove to a song that’s equal parts relatable and unforgettable.

1. Night Job (Ft. Bas & J. Cole)

This track manages a rare balance—it has a laidback vibe, but is lyrically intense. Bas sets the tone right out of the gate with his smooth flow and punchy wordplay, laying the groundwork for what becomes an elite-level rap performance. J. Cole slides in seamlessly, matching Bas bar for bar with surgical precision.

Their back-and-forth within the same verse is a highlight, showing a natural chemistry that only comes from years of collaboration and mutual respect.

One of Bas’s most memorable lines: “Never been baptized, but she soak me all in her holy water.”

One of J. Cole’s most memorable lines: “If these bullets were heat-seeking, they wouldn’t even reach you n****s!”

These dudes were spitting, Joe.

SONG BY SONG BREAKDOWN

1. Folgers Crystals (Ft. J. Cole) (4.5/5)

2. Night Jobs (Bas.& J. Cole) (5/5)

3. Backseat (Ft. Ari Lennox & Cozz) (4.5/5)

4. Caged Bird (Ft. Omen) (4/5)

5. 48 Laws (Ft. Omen & Donnie Trumpet) (4.5/5)

6. Housewives (Ft. Bas) (4/5)

7. Tabs (Ft. Bas & Cozz) (4/5)

8. Still Slummin’ (Ft. Lute) (4.5/5)

9. Grow (Ft. Correy C) (4/5)

OVERALL RATING

(86%)

J. Cole and his Dreamville label have slowly but surely built one of the most exciting and lyrically gifted rosters in hip-hop today. If you’re familiar with Cole’s style, then you know—he’s a lyrical heavyweight capable of going toe-to-toe with anyone in the game. His verses are often drenched in vivid introspection and emotional depth, giving listeners a front-row seat to his thoughts and struggles on the path to greatness.

But Revenge of the Dreamers II isn’t just about Cole. This album shines a bright spotlight on the rising stars of Dreamville: Bas, Omen, Cozz, Lute, and Ari Lennox. Each artist brings their own flavor to the table, contributing to a project that’s rich in authenticity, talent, and cohesion.

Narrowing this album down to a top five was no easy task—truth be told, every single track hits. Still, we took on the challenge and highlighted our favorites from a tracklist that’s all killer, no filler.