Personal Growth| Posted October 04, 2016
Chris Jackson is an artist/songwriter/producer who is so well positioned in the mainstream industry that he could easily be an artist in that area, but he feels comfortable doing music that is inspirational and Christian in nature. When I listen to his music, it reminds me of the Bad Boy Records era where they ruled the charts. Puffy would sample and remix a lot of songs while Chucky Thompson, Stevie J and more were handling production. Although people would criticize Puffy's sampling, they could not deny that the songs jammed. This is true for Chris Jackson, but he uses live instrumentation and drum programming, and he cleverly intertwines familiar lyrics with his own. He also has nice R&B vocals with a definite urban flare. His new mixtape No Chaser is an improved follow up to the impressive mixtape No Pressure.
My head nods so hard on "The 1ne That Got Away" as the MPC gives that mid-tempo kick drum and snare that is so infectious. Denise Renee features with Chris, and this girl can sing! Both she and Chris Jackson bring their A game to the vocal booth as they testify about having lives that looked pretty bleak before, expressing gratitude to God for His redemption. "Right Here" has that "Juicy" (Notorious B.I.G.) or "Juicy Fruit" (Mtume) beat.
I love the autobiographical approach to the title track. Jackson's songwriting strength is showcased as he takes us on a journey of wrestling desires. The chorus, "Take this cup from me / It's not chaser in it / Cause it's hard for me right now" is a clever take of wanting the "bitter cup" removed a la Jesus in the garden. In a surprising twist, Chris adds lyrics from Michael Jackson's "P.Y.T." and Ashford and Simpson's "You're All I Need to Get by" to complete the construction of "Yeah Yeah (w/Javonte)." He goes smoothly for the verses and adds a little MJ edge during the bridge.
The whole album is not about only the struggle, but he also talks about overcoming and having the attitude of a winner. "Story of a Champion" is an ill song topped with some killer background vocals from Kennedy and Melissa Musique. Jackson knows how to bring in the right people with unique and butter vocals.
The Bottom Line: Jackson adds something fresh, and No Chaser is a fun ride. It is no wonder he has worked with rapper Pusha-T and has written for Toni Braxton. The songwriting and more personal approach help to display his growth.
to add lyrics if not listed.
