'Rock Co.Kane Flow': A Timely Reminder of Hip-Hop's Enduring Substance

Valentina Reynolds
Sep 7
2 min read

'Rock Co.Kane Flow' isn't a new track, but its recent video injects it with fresh relevance. De La Soul and MF DOOM transform into animated superheroes, battling an alien invasion that symbolises the shallow lyricism and fleeting hype threatening hip-hop's core. This isn't just a nostalgic trip; it's a powerful statement arriving 20 years after The Grind Date first dropped.

That album stripped away everything but solid lyricism and tight beats. Reintroducing it now with this video powerfully affirms that true skill still reigns supreme. De La Soul and DOOM have nothing to prove. Instead, they're ensuring no one forgets the sound of undeniable talent.

Trugoy appears here, animated yet vibrantly alive. This isn't about dwelling on the past; it's about solidifying a legacy that still profoundly matters. The track hits as sharply today as it did then. Jake One's beat drives forward relentlessly, unburdened by breaks or hooks, allowing the bars to stand on their own. Posdnuos delivers his rhymes with a clear challenge in his voice, followed by DOOM's characteristically dense, layered style.

Three men in superhero suits stand in a city street with smoke and debris. Red, green, and blue costumes evoke a heroic mood.

The video itself was a labor of love. Matt Hutchings spent months meticulously animating every detail, from baggy shorts to wrestling belts. While the aesthetic lean back to 2004, the narrative feels comically current. Casting them as superheroes isn't just a stylistic choice; it represents their ongoing fight against watered-down sounds and hollow hype. When Posdnuos falls, rises, and re-engages in the battle, it powerfully illustrates their enduring presence and dedication.

De La Soul could easily rest on their monumental legacy their debut album alone is a landmark. Yet, they consistently push forward. Their 2015 crowdfunded album demonstrated their commitment to working on their own terms. Dropping this video now feels incredibly timely.

Hip-hop stands at a turning point, and DOOM's influence is undeniably re-entering critical conversations. As technology transforms how we consume music and nostalgia loses its grip, this project serves as a crucial reminder of why genuine artistry remains vital.

Animated scene of people in a crowded arena. One wears a metal mask and jersey reading "DOOM 33." The mood is lively and vibrant.

Releasing a video of this caliber reflects a profound care for the craft. De La Soul and DOOM aren't just icons; they are the standard-bearers. If you can't keep up, this simply isn't your arena. The surrounding noise may constantly shift, but they continue to define what truly matters.