Posted by In a scene oversaturated with disposable drops and hollow hype, JRoberts is one emcee who chooses to move differently. The Canadian hip-hop artist isn’t interested in flooding your feed; he’s focused on making an impact that lingers long after the music stops. His new album, “Shadows of Strategy,” produced entirely by Ol Man 80zz, is a reminder that patience, purpose, and precision still hold weight in the culture.
Less an album and more of a calculated ambush, every song is soaked in tension and delivered with intent. From the opening track, listeners get pulled into a world where the smoke never clears and every move matters. Never impulsive, “Shadows of Strategy” is premeditated lyricism, sharpened by years of discipline and reinforced by cold efficiency. From the introspection of “Lord Knows” to the militant energy of “Waging War,” the project captures both sides of JRoberts: the thinker and the warrior.
Ol Man 80zz crafts a soundscape that feels like a march through muddy water and smoke-filled trenches. His gritty, unrelenting production rings like a warning shot echoing through a war-torn backdrop. Features from Benny The Butcher, KIIIA, Hus KingPin, and Ren Thomas don’t just boost the tracklist; they reinforce the album’s militant energy. Each guest steps into JRoberts’ world and adds another layer to the already meticulous battle plan.
“Shadows of Strategy” is available on all digital streaming platforms. Tap in today for a listen! Hard copies are also available for hip-hop collectors at erierecords.ca. Before you slide off, check out our interview with the Canadian Wolf himself.
How do you feel this project reflects your growth as an artist compared to your previous releases?
This project is a clear reflection of my evolution, both lyrically and creatively. Compared to my previous releases, I’ve grown significantly in my songwriting, delivering more focused and cohesive storytelling while also pushing myself to explore new sonic territory. I challenged myself to step outside my comfort zone, experimenting with different flows, subject matter, and production styles, all while maintaining the core elements of lyricism that define my sound. It showcases a broader range and a more refined artistic vision, marking a new chapter in my musical journey.
You’ve built a reputation for full-length collaborations with producers. How did your connection with Ol Man 80zz come about for this project?
My introduction to Ol Man 80zz’s work was through a previous collaboration I had with producer Blanxx, who happens to be a close friend of his. After hearing some of 80zz’s production, I was immediately drawn to his sound and knew I wanted to build something with him. What initially started as a plan to do one or two tracks quickly evolved into a full-length project. The creative chemistry was undeniable, and we both shared a mutual drive and vision that naturally led to something bigger than we anticipated.
If this project were a film, what kind of movie would it be and why?
If Shadows of Strategy were a film, it would be a gritty, cerebral crime thriller; something that blends street realism with psychological depth. Think Heat meets The Departed; layered, methodical, and filled with tension beneath — a direction that understands pacing, mood, and storytelling through shadows, silence, and detail. Just like the album, the film would live in the grey areas, calculated, reflective, and unapologetically raw.
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