FIRST LISTEN: COMMON'S INVINCIBLE SUMMER

Huddled together in New York’s Legacy Studios on April 30, Common gave a few choice journalists a sneak peek at his forthcoming album, Invincible Summer. Due in July, the album will be Com’s eighth — not bad for a Chicago MC that has been underrated for much of his 17-year long career. With at least 2 years between all of his other albums, this is also the quickest return of his career as well — his last album, Finding Forever, was released August 8, 2007.

“I just caught the spirit about two months ago,” said Common before playing the first of eight tracks. “I was supposed to be filming this movie [Justice League: Mortal] and it got postponed. I just got inspired.”

Com teamed exclusively with The Neptunes and Outkast producer Mr. DJ (“B.O.B.”) for the 10-track set. He says the title for Invincible Summer came from the wise words of a friend: “In the depths of winter, you have to find your invincible summer.”

Other than making dope albums, Common will be kicking ass alongside Angelina Jolie and James McAvoy in another comic book-inspired movie, Wanted [see trailer below].

Sounds like Common may just have that right title for his album … and the summer.