A couple of months ago, Problem blessed the masses with Coffee Break, a four-track EP that boasted a couple of remixes and a notable assist from Dom Kennedy. That project was also matched with a short film, which — like last year’s A Compton Story — took viewers into Problem’s more-than-eventful life and career.
Today (Oct. 12), he follows that with Smoke Break, another four-song EP that boasts the Snoop Dogg-assisted cut “DIM MY LIGHT,” along with additional contributions from Airplane James and Spoon — the last of whom jumps on a remix of Problem’s Coffee & Kush, Vol. 2 standout “Just Outside,” which sees the original producer Don Cannon swapped out for St. Louis beatsmith CHASETHEMONEY.
That’s not all, either. Smoke Break’s opener, the Miles Rose, DJ Kai, and Vangogh-produced “Standing Ovation,” also comes with a matching visual. Directed by Taylor Bonin, the accompanying clip sees Problem waking up in his high-rise residence, getting ready for the day while celebrating and giving thanks for his current successes:
“I want a standing ovation, for this real nigga demonstration, this independent innovation, they yell my gang around the nation, wins being counted up without ever once playa hatin’ on no nigga … how many niggas can say that? Let me say it louder for the back, you ain’t a boss if you can’t handle catchin flack, it comes with the funds, you gotta keep it all intact…”
Coffee & Kush, Vol. 2 was released last fall and — in addition to Snoop and Spoon — saw collaborations alongside Tyrese, Jack Harlow, Jay Rock, Terrace Martin, Daphne, and Freddie Gibbs throughout ten dope cuts. The equally well-received Coffee & Kush, Vol. 1 was released mere months earlier.
Press play on both Problem’s Smoke Break EP and the aforementioned video for “Standing Ovation” below.