Jay Worthy & Larry June, 2 P’Z IN A POD

By Leo Hewitt-Provost

03/25/2022

At first listen, the opening half of the project presented something of a mixed experience. There was an initial uncertainty in tone—while the unfolding of the album was undeniably engaging, it didn’t immediately captivate. The listener found themselves caught between admiration and hesitation, not entirely sold yet compelled to keep going. This inner conflict was particularly evident in the contrast between the first two full-length tracks: while “Vanilla Cream” stood out with its smooth execution and well-crafted aesthetic, “Big Funds” fell short of expectations. Despite its clear nod to '90s West Coast production and a technically solid beat, the track lacked the resonance needed to fully connect. It was a song easier to appreciate from a technical standpoint than to enjoy on a visceral level.

At that point, there was some uncertainty regarding the album’s thematic direction. However, “Sock It 2 Me” quickly clarified things. With its overt G-Funk influence and laid-back vibe, the track revealed the project's core sonic blueprint. Both artists, Jay Worthy and Larry June, leaned heavily into the aesthetic—one rooted in classic California sounds, rich synths, and sun-soaked bounce.

Then came the turning point: “Maybe the Next Time,” featuring Roc Marciano. This track transformed the entire listening experience. The moment Roc appeared over the luxurious instrumental—featuring a stunning sample from Kleeer’s 1984 cut—the project took a new shape. The atmosphere shifted, and suddenly everything seemed elevated. It was a track that not only merged the G-Funk and soul styles present on either side of the album but acted as a tonal pivot. Roc’s verse, coupled with the vintage soul sample, created a moment of transcendence. It was both a breath of fresh air and a perfect synthesis of the project's influences—ironic, considering how much of the project leaned into '90s nostalgia while this sample reached even further back.

From that point onward, the remaining core tracks (excluding the brief interlude and outro) struck with much greater impact. Songs like “Leave It Up To Me” and “She’s Not Around” showcased a noticeable shift. There was greater clarity in the rapping, deeper subject matter, and a soulful undertone that contrasted with the heavier G-Funk vibes of the first half. The beats leaned more into soul sampling, allowing both Larry and Jay to stretch out their flows and explore more introspective lyrical territory. These two tracks, along with “Maybe the Next Time,” stood out as some of the strongest entries on the project—both musically and thematically.

It’s difficult to say whether the shift after “How 2 Knock (Interlude)” was intentional, but it certainly felt deliberate. There’s a sense of calculation in how the album evolves—how it transitions from glossy nostalgia into something more grounded and emotionally resonant. Knowing the pedigree of both artists, it’s easy to believe the sequencing was carefully considered. Jay Worthy and Larry June are seasoned craftsmen, and the nuance in the album's progression speaks to their awareness of how to build a cohesive, dynamic body of work.

Perhaps most impressive is how distinct the two halves of the project feel, despite only being separated by a few tracks. Eight full-length songs manage to cover a remarkable amount of stylistic ground. “Maybe the Next Time” remains the central link—the track that bridges the album’s funk-laden first half with the sample-driven, soulful second. It serves as both the high point and the connective tissue of the album, pulling all its elements together.

Looking back, the project stands as a strong testament to both artists’ range and growth. While not every track will land the same for every listener, the consistency in production, sample selection, and overall quality is undeniable. Some songs may take time to grow, while others make an immediate impression—but that’s the mark of a layered project. The creative chemistry between Jay Worthy and Larry June shines throughout, and their ability to evolve their sound while staying rooted in tradition deserves more recognition. This is the sound of two artists in full command of their craft.