When I posted Jon Connor’s freestyle preview for his upcoming straight-to-iTunes Salvation street album last week, the line about an actual single being soon delivered had me noting my calender. Now, the aforementioned “Big City Dreams” has been dropped off as promised. The questions is though, is it worth the listen?

Well, it depends on which Jon Connor you prefer.

See, as first-degree as this Flintstone can get on the mic, he always seems to be trying to prove himself and it’s gotten to the point where some versatility would impress me more than just another hot sixteen. When I posted dude’s music back in 2009, it was because I could appreciate his thought-process behind visualized concept cuts like “Hit The Road Again” and “Forever” from his album-like mixtape The Calling Pt 2: The Second Coming. They were gripping, melodic and had me sharing a local MC I had seen in a rundown city club with the world. Now, however, it seems the eager Jon can’t get back to that comfort zone of simply making songs people can relate to, because the nibbling at his heels leaves him snapping back at anyone vying for his spot. As result, listeners like myself are left thinking every song has the same concept, whether it’s a freestyle or sought-after EP leak.

My senses lead me to believe this theme won’t stick, but in the meantime, my better judgment will leave me being bombarded with bars another time. Because, when it comes down to it, being the most talented MC doesn’t necessarily make people want to listen. Penning thought-provoking and purposeful songs, on the other hand, does.

Jon Connor – “Big City Dreams” (Produced by Optiks)