Every Ending Has A New Beginning | Posted March-04-2022 What You Need To Know:
Recently relocating back to his hometown of Dallas Texas, hip-hop veteran Trip Lee returns to the active music scene with the release of his seventh project, titled The End. Designated as one of the founding members of Reach Records and the 116 Clique movement in 2005, the last 17 years have been quite the journey for Lee. His resume is as follows: authored two books and working on his third. A recent pastor at his childhood church, Concord Church. He’s also begun learning the craft of music production. Lee possesses one of the most authentic and hilarious personalities in the CHH space.
As most know, Lee has been relatively absent since his last project (The Waiting Room) was released, but with good reason. He stated, “It’s been about five years (2016) since I released an album and it wasn’t because I wasn’t inspired to make music or that I haven’t been creative,” shares Lee. “I didn’t have the time or energy to pastor and bring a project to completion. Through the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to step away from my daily pastoring duties and focus on bringing the ministry through the music.”
Although, time in-between releases have been sprinkled with a few singles, touring, and appearances on music from his label mates. During this hiatus, Lee focused on pastoring, family, and managing personal health issues related to chronic fatigue syndrome.
Lee’s first signs of new music for the album appeared on the Reach Records Presents Summer ‘21 playlist with the track, "You Got It." Due to its popularity, the track was even featured on NFL ads during the regular season for promotion of the NFL Shop’s website. He proceeded forward with two more singles (“Supernatural” and “Stone”) leading up to the release of The End. on March 4. The artistry of Lee’s talents and creativity extended into three dynamic music videos accompanying the singles with a fourth dropping on the album’s release date.
The End. is a new beginning as fans will be captivated to learn the concepts behind the album and what’s planned in the near future.
What it Sounds Like:
With no lack of free time during the pandemic, Lee captured this opportunity to learn and experiment with music production. The end product was a renewed sound powered behind his witty wordplay and lyrical praise of our Lord Most High. A reasonable chunk of the album was either solely produced or co-produced by Lee. The mastermind production genius Mashell (Leroy) co-piloted the rest resulting in innovation and a thematic experience. The infusion of analog, synthesizers, and other common instrumentation mutated into a unique soundscape crossing an 80s video game or movie soundtrack with current production trends.
Mashell and industry heavyweight JUICEBANGERS tag-teamed the production efforts on the third single “Stone” presenting the best electronic representation of sound heard throughout all 15 tracks. The innovation is brilliant and new to the classic Lee sound, however, acts more as a complement to his already notorious flow.
Standout tracks include “Right Out The Gate,” “Witness” featuring Wande and WHATUPRG, and “Call It Life.” The stomping of the hardened piano chords on “Right Out The Gate” puts me in mind of the genius production Dr. Dre is famous far. “Witness” features one of Wande’s strongest feature efforts and stamps her current season of “Blande” and her skill to “rap RAP” over beats. “Call It Life” has a genius surprise fans are sure to applaud.
Fans are treated to something new related to the soundscape and overall production and something old in Lee’s iconic delivery, voice, and playful bars. Once the ears adjust, this record will be on repeat for any true Lee fan.
Spiritual Highlights:
Equipped with a pastoral background, Lee’s no stranger to God’s Word and teachings. Spiritual content has been a mainstay of Lee’s music and this time around is no different. The End. is filled with scriptural references, influence, and content. “Stone” for example contains snippets from the founding pastor, Dr. E.K. Bailey, of Lee’s current (and childhood) church home; Concord Church. “Homecoming” speaks to the transition from this life into our eternal home. “Supernatural” talks about how much we need spiritual intervention in our daily lives. There are gems of spiritual content throughout.
Lee’s faith and spiritual walk are smothered over each track in one facet or another. One of my favorite lines is in “Supernatural” where he says, “I wish everybody knew my God, the healer, the cancer killer.” God’s strength and healing sustain Lee and myself included day-to-day.
Best Song on the Record:
The album contains quite a few standout tracks. However, I picked “Right Out The Gate” for several reasons. First, the production. The soundscape is diverse, outlined in synthesizer and analog vibes with moments of brilliance.
The low octave booming sound of piano keys that enter in around the 0:29 mark of the track is incredible. Add-In the string of synth keys that arrive around the 0:58 mark and a masterpiece is formed. Combined with powerful 808’s and light high-hat taps, this beat is stamped as one of my all-time favorites in CHH.
The content aligns beautifully with the surrounding sounds serving as sort of a reintroduction to Lee’s unique voice and wordplay genius. You just hear his love for artistry and rapping cemented by the lines of, “I would still do this for no pay (it would be kind of hard though I’m not gon’ lie).” This track has been on constant repeat since the release of the album and I do not sense that will change for weeks to follow.
Trip Lee literally self-taught himself how to play the keys (piano), produce beats and decipher the ins and outs of music production during the downtime of the COVID-19 pandemic. As hinted at, Lee basically produced the entire album with the influence of Mashell’s genius and a few other industry friends. The end result was a creative, innovative, and fresh sound serving as the playground for Lee to integrate his talents lyrically bouncing around witty wordplay, playful adlibs, and spiritual influence. Each track has a unique feel, as the project doesn’t seem redundant. The tempo doesn’t stray far from upbeat and energetic, but a few worship vibes exist such as “All Mine” featuring Taylor Hill and “Dreamin.” The story told reunites fans from old with fans of the modern-day. It’s classic Trip Lee with a fresh coat of paint one could say.
“Every season has an ending and every ending has a new beginning,” Lee emphasized during the beginning of the album rollout. These words of promise and of bright days ahead are encouraging and felt throughout. This may not be tagged as Lee’s best album to date; however, I definitely believe it’s one of his most imaginative and all-encompassing projects. His legacy throughout the last 17 years echoes from start to finish tinted with ingenuity. Lee ignored industry trends and standards creating a sound of his own. My springtime road trips have a new soundtrack and my ears couldn’t be more grateful.
Stream The End. on Spotify or purchase the album on iTunes.
Masterpiece Between Foreign Lands | Posted February-24-2022 What You Need To Know:
CASS is an independent self-taught musician, producer, engineer, and talented individual all wrapped into one creative soul. Born as Cassandra Kandra, a native of Zimbabwe, she’s spent most of her life as a resident of New Zealand. CASS studied at the New Zealand School of Music and ARISE Ministry School before establishing a foundation as a well-rounded artist in 2017 at the age of 22. Her first album, Genesis, was released in 2017 after being handcrafted in the confines of her own bedroom. One of the positives of a constantly evolving world of technology tied to the music industry. The second album, Not For Sale, quickly followed her debut a year later in 2018. Both albums received numerous awards, recognition, and merit echoing back to the innovative genius CASS is known by.
CASS’s signature cannot be boxed into any specific genre or style, as it’s an infusion of R&B, hip-hop, EDM, and international grooves. With CASS defining love for instrumentation early on in life (age 11), such influence has transformed her art into playful moments only a visionary can manifest. Her latest album, Diaspora, is a sonic journey throughout diversity, empowerment, culture, and a healthy love for our Savior.
What it Sounds Like:
To honestly define all the soundscapes captured on the album, one would need a written medium similar to a short story. CASS captures the essence of two worlds collided between the cultures of Zimbabwe and New Zealand sprinkled with the influence of American artistry. Song selections are smothered with woodwinds, electric guitars, strokes of piano keys, and extensive use of all members of the percussion family. Two singles were released leading up to the album, “Clouds” and “Foreigner.” “Clouds” was an immersion of natural sounds behind powerful bass and high hats. The track highlights CASS’s vocal range and smoothness of her transitions between concepts. “Foreigner” spotlights her devout faith and believers’ position on this earth as foreigners in a foreign land empowered by God awaiting our heavenly call home. The guitar riffs go crazy on this track, pay attention.
Only a handful of featured artists join CASS on the album including V. Rose, Aklesso, Uzuhan, Cortes, and Eris Ford. All dope creatives with their own fingerprints on the CHH space. Other highlighted tracks include the vulnerable and raw pair of songs, “Two Letters” and “Alabaster” featuring Eris Ford.
CASS has defined her own lane in a smothered space of monotoned repetition. Her art adds a refreshed perspective of beauty defined in artistry through the medium of musical expression. CASS sets the bar high for aspiring artists to follow, a blueprint to call her own.
Spiritual Highlights:
CASS affirmed her faith at the age of 16 handing her life over to Jesus. Ever since that moment, God has consistently shown her calling of creating music as her gift to the world, especially those in need. She’s been quoted saying her obedience to God and her calling is the motivation behind her artistry. Also, whatever obstacles CASS may face are used ultimately as a tool to help and encourage others while personally growing in her own faith walk.
That being said, her faith and testimony are scattered throughout each song of Diaspora. The refrain on “Foreigner” accents the strength found in God. “God got me (Got me, got me) // Who can really stop me? (Stop me, yeah) // Seraphim army (Uh-huh) // Who’s gon’ stop me? These lyrics remind me of the message found in Psalms 84-9-12.
The song “Desperate” puts me in mind of a modernized worship track. CASS repeats how she’s “in desperate need of a Savior” throughout. She continues with her yearning for the imprint of Jesus on her life regardless of the situation. Quite transparent, raw, and cries from the soul.
No worries from her fanbase on this album about being vocal about faith and God’s calling on Cass’s life. Diaspora overflows with her personal testimony, biblical themes, and how faith is navigated from her own perspectives.
Best Song on the Record:
This album is one of those rare gems where any of the 12 songs could be deemed a favorite. Each is relatable, personal, artistic, and has a certified vibe. Therefore, it was difficult to pinpoint a single standout. However, “Priceless” featuring V. Rose tugs on a few strings of my heart while my head endlessly bops to the beat. Woodwinds and brilliant strokes of ivory keys drive the track behind rim shots and running high hats. The content expressed lyrically from CASS and V. Rose touches emotions deep down. Believers must realize we are who we are due to the sacrifices of Christ. His endless love, protection, servitude is all examples worthy of worship. I love the infections of CASS’s voice adding additional spice to the delivery. The two ladies flow seamlessly together creating a memorable track.
CASS provides the culture with the recipe for timeless music. Music that possesses meaning, emotion, cultural relevance, and a connection with listeners. Diaspora represents how residing in both Zimbabwe and New Zealand has shaped CASS into the best of both cultures. What CASS is able to create through production, artistry, and a tag-team effort with Chris Howland has been beyond exceptional. The album will be on constant rotation for weeks to come.
Stream Diaspora on Spotify or purchase the album on iTunes.
Child-Like Faith All Grown Up | Posted September-30-2021 What You Need To Know:
Seven years (2014) after the original Never LandEP was released and a week delayed from the original drop date, fans are finally blessed with art from Reach Records / Miner League’s Andy Mineo in the form of a full-length album. Never Land II is a concept album inspired by the 1991 Steven Spielberg-directed film Hook. The movie’s storyline runs parallel with Mineo’s journey of life, faith, and art while exposing his internal struggle to protect a child-like sense of imagination and adventure while growing older. The album is a place of re-discovery for Mineo as he reclaims childhood memories hoping listeners do the same.
Never Land II’s feature list gathers a few long-time friends (Lecrae, Wordsplayed, Joseph Solomon) while engaging some artistic gems (Chandler Moore, JVKE, Ink) to join in the musical adventure. Also, the album is narrated by Mineo’s mother, Fran Mineo. In 2018, she passed away after a battle with Leukemia. He discovered some unused material leftover from Saturday Morning Car-Tunez, Season 3 (2015) retooled to fit the narration piece. The project contains some of the most vulnerable and transparent content Mineo’s released to date proving to nearly guarantee an instant connection to fans and their own faith walk with Christ.
What it Sounds Like:
Bridging over from the 2018 two-pack of EPs titled, the Arrow and the Sword, Never Land II is a continuation of that transparent internal display Mineo captures through intense emotion, personal struggles, and artistic expression lyrically as well as sonically. He welcomes his fanbase into his own thought process and trials of the heart navigating through a pandemic, daily life, and the trials created throughout daily situations. The first impression of sound listeners acquire will be echoes of Mineo’s heart poured into every bar.
Mineo is not only a superb songwriter, but a killer producer who assisted with production on four tracks and solely produced “Not Gon’ Do” featuring Joseph Solomon. This track happens to be one of my favorites as I love how Mineo chopped up Solomon’s vocals and inserted them into his own rhyme schemes. It’s a mixture of personal truths and Mineo’s stance on various life situations.
To be honest, the creative affirmations kick off from the first two introduction tracks and follow throughout. Listeners are treated to innovation from start to finish. Another standout track is “Nobody’s Coming” as we find Mineo harmonizing melodies while exposing vulnerable statements line for line, some of his deepest expressions to date. The simplicity of riding the melodies with production stripped to solely an acoustic guitar adds to the overall beauty.
For “Working On It” featuring Chandler Moore, Mineo’s creative juices are magnified and exemplified ten times over as he brings a different vibe and flavor to the track. It’s always a creative risk to step outside typical rapping over trap beats for an entire record. This risk pays off several times over. It’s different, unique and one of the stars of the project. The plethora of sound included forces fans onto their feet to erratically move to the infectious compilation of ear candy.
I could talk endlessly about each track as I love all of them for particular qualities, but just do yourself a favor and run this album all the way through countless times.
Spiritual Highlights:
This album is an explosion of emotional deconstruction while Mineo wrestles through faith, maturity, retaining child-like tendencies and adventures combined with artistic expression. Never Land represents a safe space reserved for self-expression, vulnerability, honesty, and the ability to question everything. It encapsulates the child-like wonder of youth with a vision free of judgment, condemnation, hypocrisy, and boundaries. Imagination at its finest.
Mineo correlates what faith should be in comparison to what Never Land represents as opposed to all that is dysfunctional with Christian believers. In theory, Christ-followers are to mirror Jesus. His purity. His endless love. His attention to the beauty which surrounds us in God’s Creation. His empathy for the entire human race. Never Land, to me, is a piece of what heaven has been described as.
Listeners are not going to get 101 references to the bible, the trinity, or theology. That’s reserved for teachings from your local pastor in the eyes of Mineo (and rightfully so). What fans will receive is uncensored truth about day-to-day life and how a man of faith navigates daily noise as a believer. Its lyrics are dominated by real-life applications. The wholesome approach to the trials and tribulations faced as Christians possesses a prominent place within art too.
Best Song on the Record:
Personally, I must agree with Mineo’s own declaration of his favorite from the project. “Trying” contains examples of his best songwriting in the past decade laced with levels of vulnerability rarely communicated anymore. The essence of the record is a million things we exhaust ourselves trying to accomplish. From the inclusion of a Son Lux sample to the acapella-like feel of Mineo’s delivery is exceptional. Run this track back a few times to capture the witty wordplay and brilliant cadence articulated. He bounces between the motions of any given day to passions and inner thoughts as well as goals and aspirations. Anymore, it’s far less often a record renders me speechless. This is one of those moments.
Never Land II conjures a multitude of relatable material, expressed through precise delivery connected from the innermost depth of Mineo’s heart. His continuous creative grind for the last decade pays off in massive dividends as this album ranks amongst his best. Mineo puts on his visionary hat with this one overseeing every little detail. As close as Mineo was with his mother Fran, the tribute of her narration contribution is not only fitting but a perfect compliment to Mineo’s ingenious creation. Never Land II doesn’t contain a skippable track, as each has lasting appeal and value regardless of the audience.
Stream Never Land II on Spotify or purchase the album on iTunes.
Bringing Back the Live Experience of Music | Posted May-27-2021 What You Need To Know:
Zauntee is a 22-year-old independent rapper from Tampa, Florida. His passion for music began at the young age of 10 progressing forward to the age of 14 when he started to produce his own music. Zauntee’s made a prominent impact on the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) genre shortly after at the age of 17 when his first single and video debuted “God Taught Me.” To date, the video has nearly 9.5 million views.
Three years after exploding onto the CHH scene, Zauntee released his debut album titled, 3:34. Seven months afterward, three tracks from the debut album and “God Taught Me” received a minor makeover for his latest EP release titled, 3:34: The Warehouse Sessions.
What it Sounds Like:
Zauntee’s latest 4-track EP keeps alive some of his hottest tracks from the debut album released in November 2020. Also, “God Taught Me” is still going strong nearly four years after its initial 2017 release. The differences of each track are subtle, electric guitar-driven with more of an echoed delivery you’d hear if a fan at a live show. Besides a few new guitar riffs, bends and slides, the sound remains true to the original offerings. All of the original lyrics remain as well as the core production soundscape.
The EP presents more of the live experience missed from nearly two years of isolation caused by the global pandemic. Each track also received visuals in video form providing fans as close of a concert experience as possible given the circumstances.
Spiritual Highlights:
Like most within the CHH genre, Zauntee is unashamed of the gospel and spreading the Good News of Christ. One of the most prominent examples is the track “Glory.” Literally, it’s a worship-infused track with a whirlwind of impressive sounds and an ode to God our Creator. “Trust” dives into Zauntee’s personal trust in God regardless of the circumstance. “Die For You” explains his thankfulness for all God represents in his life and how he’d do nearly anything in return as a form of payment, gratitude.
There is no lack of God’s presence on this EP. It’s smothered and laced in faith, worship, and devotion. It’s a letter of encouragement during the difficult faith walk.
Best Song on the Record:
My personal favorite on The Warehouse Sessions would be “Glory.” It’s stuck directly in the middle of the track selection with reason. Besides “God Taught Me,” this track is my favorite track to date from Zauntee. I love the sonic appeal of the track. The added electric guitar components. The throaty, live vocals. The energy of the track. The crossover between the feel of a gospel track and a hip-hop track is incredible.
Zauntee’s follow-up EP to his debut album has a different, yet familiar feel. The content remains consistent and unchanged; however, differences are obviously noted throughout the soundscape and overall vibe. It’s a solid snapshot of the full picture of quality music present on the debut. The videos that go with the four tracks are worth watching, especially if you crave the concert venue environment as much as I do.
Testimony Exposed Between Valleys and Blessings | Posted April-13-2021 What You Need To Know
During the short-term period of just two years, Georgia's own Christopher Hulvey has exploded onto the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) scene evolving from scrubbing toilets in a local grocery store to a certified hip-hop artist signed to Reach Records, one of the most profound music labels within the industry.
Rapper, singer, freestyler, and producer credits contribute to one of the most famed up-and-coming artists in CHH. Before signing with Reach Records in January of 2020 and releasing his debut EP Prelude the same month, Hulvey released his personal agenda to God before fully encompassing what His creator planned for the now 23-year-old lyricist. Four EPs and a handful of singles later, fans are rewarded with his debut album, Christopher.
Transparency takes front and center throughout the new album, representing an audio timeline from high school to present day. Hulvey’s transformation in maturity, faith, and artistry is exposed through snapshot moments of time pinpointed as game-changers.
The idea of worship is true to form as a lifestyle and not concealed to musical restraints as Hulvey’s heart for God is spotlighted all for His glory. Christopher correlates the best of Hulvey’s arsenal in rhyme and harmony perfected while expressing how the last decade has molded him into the man he represents today.
What it Sounds Like
The beauty resides in the various soundscapes experienced throughout Christopher. Worship anthems, Friday-night bangers, pop-driven hits, freestyle perfection, and songs of remembrance assemble collectively. A correlation of meaningful strings, energetic keys, and masterful mixes seesaw between the pulse of the streets and the refuge of the sanctuary.
Standout tracks tagged begin front and center with the first track, “Can’t Tell It All.” The beat, including the switch-up, is infectious. Hulvey’s flow comfortably and elegantly sits in the pocket. Rhyme schemes are on point and the content pours out directly from the heart and blessings from God.
Also, a highlight stems from one of the pre-release singles, “We Against the World,” featuring fellow hip-hop artist Andy Mineo. The visuals alone are worthy of a Best Video of the Year award nod. Andy’s acting mimics the caliber of an Oscar winner for Best Comedic Performance. Besides that, Hulvey explains how life is impossible alone, as we need a loving God beside us to foster success.
“Nothing Without Jesus” brings Revelation 12:11 to life, accenting how important a believer’s testimony is personally and to others in need.
Spiritual Highlights
The listener doesn’t have to wait long to hear of how God’s influence is written all over Hulvey's life. His first name, for starters, means “Christ Bearer.” From start to finish, on his debut album, Hulvey's goal was to glorify God. The entire project bleeds of God’s blessings, protection, and love everlasting—on his life and the life of his peers. From mission trip miracles to God’s calling not always being popular among friends—and even times feeling apart from the calling—Hulvey details how good our God is and the impact felt from preschool years forward.
Empowering lyrics follow one after another such as, “Holy Spirit, come into my life/Won't You wrap me up inside Your light?” Also, “All praise to the Father, to the Son/To the Spirit, You're the one/Hope You hear it, He's the one.”
Christopher is smothered in spiritual content—just like Hulvey's life. The goal of glorifying God as the overall theme of the record was accomplished hands down.
Best Song
“Cold Nights” stands out on its own for good reason. As believers, we know how to praise and worship our creator when times are good. When life seems to ride on auto-pilot. However, how about the difficult seasons? The restless nights? The times we’re stuck in the valley? Those are the types of tracks I personally relate to the most.
Like many, 2020 was a year of struggle. The pandemic exposed many emotions usually well-kept hidden. Depression, anxiety, uncertainty, and a storm of negativity laced the year. Hulvey shares some of his own experiences and anxiety from that year and generally speaking. He calls out to us to reach out to those in need often and to always remember to praise Him even in the storm.
Hulvey infuses hope and passion into his brand of artistry. Christopher is a body of work well defined as a Christ-centered, unapologetic expression of faith. Listeners were treated to the raw form of Hulvey and his creative arsenal of talent. In the past 365 days, he’s provided a buffet of sound and material to marinate upon. The rapper has cemented himself as one of the top emcees in the space—and he’s only just began.
Stream Christopher on Spotify or purchase the debut album on iTunes.
Resetting the Culture One Track at a Time | Posted April-13-2021
What You Need To Know
Celebrating basically two decades involved in Christian Hip-Hop, Propaganda has nearly perfected the art of spoken word, poetry, and rap. In 2003, he collaborated with underground group Tunnel Rats, while beginning his own solo career with his debut album, Out of Knowhere.
Propaganda’s upbringing began in a Latino-dominated community in Los Angeles, followed by a low-income African American suburb (he was exposed to beautiful cultures from childhood). With his mother’s activist background, personal educational excellence, diverse cultural impacts, and life experiences, Propaganda has grown into a well-seasoned artist, emcee, and learner who can convey his message and sound through artistic mediums like poetry and music.
Propaganda presents to us one of his strongest works, to date—even in its shortened EP form. It’s definitely quality over quantity with his new Terraform: The People EP. He offers the idea of a cultural reset needed nationwide geared towards embracing America’s unique and numerous cultures, as opposed to berating individuals and mocking cultural differences often. To me, it says, "God made beautiful people worldwide who have gathered in our own borders."
What it Sounds Like
On the EP, On-air DJ Mal-Ski, from 102.3 KJLH, on Los Angeles radio, collaborated with Propaganda, thus adding a unique sound and flavor to the artwork. Also, Propoganda tagged some of the Christian music industry heavyweights—that is, Lecrae, Swoope, and V. Rose—to join him throughout this journey. Overall, the sound is a refreshing escape from what typical Cristian hip-hop singles have offered in 2021.
Between infectious handclaps and keys, Propoganda’s domineering delivery, echoing sounds of people gathered, and driving snares give listeners a different flavor. It’s not your typical trap sound. It’s not completely boom bap either. It’s a mixture of sonically pleasing instrumentation, highlighting how cultures express themselves musically.
“We Were Only 10” takes me back to the mid-’90s when storytelling rhyming was in its prime. “We All In,” featuring Lecrae, brings the idea of universal community to the forefront. It reminds us how beautiful culture can be defined when experienced firsthand.
“We No Entiende,” featuring Swoope, reminds us social injustice and police brutality aren’t concealed to “flavors of the month” for news sources. It’s a daily occurrence and needs to be broadcasted often, enabling the masses to never forget.
Propaganda wraps up with “Let the Credits Roll,” reminding us how important it is to appreciate the family and people who came before us and the roles they played in influencing lives of our own.
As mentioned, the recurring tone of a refreshing sound enters my mind when thinking about the overall content and soundscape. Each track stands out and could potentially shine on its own. Yet, collectively speaking, each track compliments the other quite remarkably. Again, quality trumps quantity with this EP, as it represents nearly 22 minutes of inner dialogue with self. A gut check. An introspection of emotions and thoughts against our actions and words.
Spiritual Highlights
Propaganda may not be known for his “JPMs” (Jesus per minute) on these tracks, however, his deeply-rooted faith can be found throughout this EP; in fact, his faith can be found on every one of his collections. He speaks more towards the actions and words of believers—or lack thereof—and exposes systematic injustice globally (this includes the church). Propaganda offers artistic solutions to situations that plague individuals on a daily basis—especially those of color.
Best Song on the Record
Collectively, Terraform: The People will sit in my personal rotation for weeks to follow. However, one standout track is “We All In,” which features Lecrae. The soundscape throughout the song is near perfection. The themes of community, culture, and unity accented on the project are pinpointed on this particular track.
One unique aspect driving the entire vibe is the heartbeat-like sound pulsating until the end, again relevant to that of what keeps communities alive—the lifeline of its people. As a long-time fan of Lecrae, this song speaks volumes that I find this feature to be one of his strongest to date.
Steady in the pocket, rhyme schemes well-defined, and a memorable flow. Of course, Propaganda did his thing. He offers some of the best examples of creative wordplay while remaining confident in the delivery. I can definitely see this track performing well—even if Lecrae’s verse is absent. The song reminds me of someone speaking out in front of a crowd, primed to jump at any opportunity to move forward for the culture.
I’ll echo the sentiment once again—quality over quantity. Usually, I’m not the biggest fan of the shortened EP form of music artistry, as the complete story is usually unfinished. However, Terraform: The People presents itself as the opposite. A complete work.
Propaganda reveals his motive from start to finish, while walking it out sonically. The rapper reminds me of a street version of contemporary Christian singer Kirk Franklin. Orchestrating soundtracks for the people moving individuals into a call for action; driven by transparent bars, personal experiences, and a heart for the Lord.
I admire Propoganda's confidence. He's unafraid to speak on issues of the people and for the people. He's for moving agendas forward towards solutions. A front runner. The purpose is imprinted in everything Propoganda touches. This is one appeal I’ve always been drawn towards—regardless of the album title. Propaganda, once again, outdid himself with this one. A must listen.
Stream Terraform: The People on Spotify or purchase the EP on iTunes.
Worship Like No Other | Posted February-03-2021 What You Need To Know
Australian natives Planetboom are the youth ministry band for the Planetshakers Church in Melbourne, Australia. This 10-plus member band is composed of young musicians, songwriters, and vocalists who lead thousands of teenagers in praise and worship weekly. Planetboom’s style of music infuses electronic dance music (EDM), hip-hop, contemporary, rock, and soulful worship powered by energetic handclaps, bass, and overpowering vocals.
The youth worship band began their public musical outreach by being featured on a track from a Planetshakers’ album in 2016. Next, three singles were released in 2018 and their debut album was released in 2019 titled, Jesus Over Everything. Most of their early singles have gathered over one million streams on Spotify, and the last two albums have songs close to 500,000 streams.
The youth band recently released JC Squad, their sophomore album. The project was inspired by the diversity present during weekly youth services representing 60 or more nationalities. Their goal is to witness generations of youth and young adults encounter the love of Jesus. JC Squad was produced by Josh Ham, mixed by worship leader Joth Hunt, and co-written by youth pastor Andy Harrison. The album serves as a message about the global church body.
What it Sounds Like
A multitude of elements is present throughout the album. An ode to the diversity present, it’s near impossible to fit Planetboom into a boxed genre. This is one of the most attractive qualities of their music and influence, from my personal perspective.
The album opens up with “Walk” while listeners are exposed to thundering bass, funky electronic rhythms, as well as crowd involvement. These sure-fire anthems will be a blast live once concerts and in-person events are possible again. The opener is immediately followed by the title track from the album. “JC Squad” encompasses variety in every shape and form. It’s complete with tempo changes, earth-shattering bass, sounds of a flute, sermon snippets, hypnotic handclaps, and an electronic explosion of sound.
The overall sonic value of the entire album is insanity at best with what feels like 101 examples of unique instrumentation. It’s a full-on combined Chinese and breakfast buffet smothered with more options than Amazon. There isn’t any lack of creativity and experimentation on the album. Thankfully, regardless of how many twists and turns the album takes via the soundscape, it all worked out beautifully in so many ways.
The only hints of normalcy related to an atypical worship track would be on “ILY (Live),” “All I Need,” and “Jesus is The Key.” It’s like the band took a short pause from the energetic theme throughout to just sing in awe of the love of Jesus. From there, the music quickly returns to its regularly scheduled dance party finishing out the album.
Spiritual Highlights
Due to the fact that the album is considered a collection of worship music, listeners are not hard-pressed to hear the spiritual influence of the band throughout the lyrics, regardless of the track. Fueled by youthful, spirited devout followers of Christ, each song possesses its own heavenly sound praising our Father and Savior equally.
“Kamsahamnida (Live)” exclaims, 'Jesus is the best.' Several tracks, such as “Loved By You” and “All I Need,” are just personal and expressive outcries to God and how much His love is appreciated by believers. “Praise Over Problems (VIP Mix)” is a remix of one of their original blockbusters that assures believers regardless of the trials and valleys faced, we shall always praise God for all the positive situations in life we’re blessed with frequently.
Best Song on the Record
A difficult choice, but if I had to select a favorite, I’d chose “Walk.” It’s an amazing opening track for the album cementing what to expect. The energy is infectious. The call-and-response of “We Win” closing the track out. The booming bass. All combined, I’d say this track is one of my favorites of the worship genre in quite some time.
Planetboom achieved something few other bands and artists have, a unique sound. No other band sounds like Planetboom regardless of the track. It’s memorizing. It’s unique. It’s over-the-top. It’s everything I never knew my ears and soul needed. I adore all of the various instrumentation and eclectic soundscapes. This is one of the few albums I’ve listened to 10-plus times in less than a month’s time. I hope other youth group bands follow the creative mold Planetboom has set going forward.
Stream the album on Spotify or purchase the project on iTunes.
Servitude Through Music | Posted November-23-2020 What You Need To Know
Zauntee is a 21-year old independent rapper from Tampa, Florida. His passion for music began at the young age of 10. He started producing his own music. Zauntee’s made a prominent impact on the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) genre shortly after at the age of 17 when his first single and video debuted “God Taught Me.” To date, the video has over 8.5 million views.
Zauntee has quite a successful touring history in a small span of time. He joined Casting Crowns for their Only Jesus Tour covering nearly 60 dates of travel. Then, he joined the Winter Jam tour in 2020 for a little more than 20 dates before the tour was canceled due to COVID-19.
Now, three years after exploding onto the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) scene, Zauntee releases his debut album, 3:34. In September 2020, Zauntee explained his concept behind the album on Twitter: “We all have different battles, but we feel the same emotions. I have three desires: to glorify God, to take care of my family, and to be here for you (his fans).” 3:34 is personal. It’s transparent. It’s a direct connection between the music and the fans. This is for his fans, named the Zealots.
What it Sounds Like
Zauntee took a unique approach to how the album begins. Instead of launching his debut with a set of energetic, hype tracks, he chose his lead single for the project to be “I’m Sorry,” an apologetic display of emotional rawness putting everything on the line.
The album's tempo relates directly to the roller coaster of ups and downs. And, the album finishes strong, claiming victory through Jesus. 3:34 mirrors such with several slowed-down lyrical testimonies of faith sprinkled with powerful body-moving anthems wrapped up the single that started it all, “God Taught Me.”
The instrumentation stands out as an album highlight. Throughout, listeners will hear electric guitar, trumpet, piano, a choir, bells, and your typical dose of trap-laced high hats, as well as strong basslines. The diversity of the tracks impresses as well. The uber personal tracks like “Hurricane” and “I’m Sorry.” The summer, game-time powerhouses like “Winning” and “Showtime.” The soon-to-be radio hit “Glory.” There are hidden gems for every type of mood.
Spiritual Highlights
Like most artists within the CHH genre, Zauntee is unashamed of the gospel and spreading the Good News of Christ. One of the most prominent examples is the track “Glory.” Literally, it’s a worship-infused track with a whirlwind of impressive sounds and an ode to God, our creator. “Trust” dives into Zauntee’s personal trust in God regardless of the circumstance. “Die For You” explains his thankfulness for all God represents in his life and how he’d do nearly anything in return as a form of payment, gratitude.
There is no lack of God’s presence on this album. It’s smothered and laced in faith, worship, and devotion. It’s a letter of encouragement during the difficult faith walk from start to finish.
Best Song on the Record
My personal favorite track is “Glory.” It’s placed directly in the middle of the album with reason. I love the song's sonic appeal: the electric guitar, the choir, as well as the track's energy. The crossover between gospel and hip-hop is incredible. I’d love to see this track remixed with the likes of Tye Tribbett, Dietrick Haddon, or Travis Greene.
Zauntee’s debut album has a different vibe for most moods on any given day. Songs that encourage. Songs you can relate to. Songs that hype you up. It’s a welcomed collection of sounds begging for repeat listens. He’s discovered his core sound from the beginning, as many years of constant success are sure to follow his footsteps in the years to follow.
Stream the debut album on Spotify or purchase the project on iTunes.
The Ups and Downs of Growing Up | Posted November-12-2020 What You Need To Know:
Seattle-based resident Peabod (birth name Isaac Peabody) has one of the more creative roads to hip-hop in the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) community. Peabod began his music career as a singer/songwriter in the folk genre. In 2014, he independently released an EP titled, Steps. However, Peabod was always rooted in hip-hop. He used to write rhymes for fun. It was a deeper passion unexplored. These “for fun” raps transformed into a mixtape. The mixtape was named Healthy Snacks. The self-produced engineered and recorded project caught the ears of staff at Centricity Music. In 2018, the label signed its first hip-hop artist. Centricity re-released Healthy Snacks as Peabod’s debut project.
Peabod’s latest EP, Growing Up, Pt. 1, is a collection of previously released singles from 2020 and two new tracks. He brought a few friends along for the storytelling journey, included his beloved wife Belle, Reach Records’ Tedashii, Gotee’s Cochren & Co., and independent rapper AKLESSO adds their talents to an overall impressive collective sound throughout the EP.
What it Sounds Like:
Just when you think concept projects are a thing of the past, Peabod creatively develops an EP with a story. The track names are perfect pertaining to the name of the EP. While we experience childhood and growing up, it’s both wonderful and scary. When we’re engaged in a relationship with our heavenly Father early on, we’re compelled to love everybody. During certain milestones in those early years, we experience big feelings grander than anything we previously experienced. Then, most of us relate to the prodigal son parable from the bible when we stray away on our own terms during teenage years returning years later when we solidify our faith.
The EP begins with the latest single from Peabod, “Wonderful and Scary.” As previously described, he presents the beginnings of his life and how everything can be both wonderful and scary as a child. He displays his own lyrical prowess with an impressive flow packed with metaphors and experiences every listener can relate with. An intro of sorts to the project, a portrait of his humble paintings is displayed lyrically providing a peek inside the creative mode Peabod possesses.
Next, we’re introduced to the first of two new tracks from Peabod, “Love Everybody” featuring Tedashii. He expresses a command directly from our Savior, love God and love thy neighbor. Essentially, love everyone. The track personifies Peabod’s “happy raps” reputation his music provides. The eccentric high hats and handclaps force a smile on the listener’s faces. It’s basically the definition of Peabod and his outlook beautifully displayed. Tedashii’s contributions highlight an already dope track.
The second brand new offering wraps up the EP, “Prodigal” featuring Belle (his wife). It’s an expansion from Peabod’s own viewpoint of the biblical parable describing the prodigal son. The contribution from Belle Peabody accents the track reminiscent of the father running to the son when he returns home and perfectly wraps up the first part of growing up from the mind of Peabod. The chorus/hook reminds me of how angels would react when the son returns and the heavens rejoice. Powerful and in perfect harmony.
The remaining two tracks were revealed to Peabod’s fanbase during the summer. “Big Feelings” featuring AKLESSO and “Heavenly Father” featuring Cochren and Co. These two marry well as “Big Feelings” reveals the inner workings of Peabod from a transparent introspective of struggle and doubt whereas “Heavenly Father” answers the call of prayer when we’re at our weakest crying out in worship to God.
Spiritual Highlights:
The contents of the EP explain how Peabod found his faith early on during his childhood years. We discover the inner battle he struggles with early on carried forward into time as an adult. It showcases how his faith has grown from basic to extended wisdom through lessons and experiences.
In “Wonderful and Scary,” we hear of how Peabod is thankful for the blessings even though they may seem scary before being revealed as something wonderful. With “Love Everybody,” he takes God’s basic command to love everyone and applies it to his life outward. “Big Feelings” expresses how God remains with us regardless of the highs and lows we experience often. “Heavenly Father” exposes his everlasting love regardless of our own struggles. “Prodigal” is directly taken from God’s Word in the book of Luke and expands on the parable.
Peabod is known for his “happy raps” mentality because of the joy God provides within his life daily. He’s never discrete about his faith or the source of his happiness. Therefore, the art Peabod paints through the medium of music possess a blueprint from the Father himself.
Best Song on the Record:
Even from only a selection field of five tracks, I struggled with selecting the best track. I enjoy each of the five for different reasons. However, I’m going to stamp respect on “Prodigal” featuring Belle as my best song from the EP. There’s just something organic, poetic even about a husband and a wife sharing their creative giftings together during the short length of a song.
It’s rare two creative opposites merge ever-so beautifully during the art of a song. Peabod with the wordplay, crazy rhyme schemes focused on the parable of the prodigal son. Mrs. Peabod with the powerful chorus/hook driving home the beauty of when a child of God returns to the faith.
I absolutely adore the introduction filled with sounds of piano and a chorus. The piano throughout behind the driving bassline is beautiful.
The melodic and harmonious chorus/hook merged with the rhymes of excellence from Peabod combine for a solid track and a highlight of the EP.
I find it quite an incredible feat artists are beginning to achieve within the shortened EP form. Even though most projects range from four to seven tracks in 2020, the content hasn’t suffered. Peabod achieved a concept album within the borders of an EP. The project contains vivid storytelling, transparency, and an overall theme that resonates throughout each track in its own creative undertone.
I appreciate personally how Peabod laces each track with his brilliant lyricism, then features bolding break out during choruses or add an additional verse syncing with your overall vision for the track. The concept of the EP tagged along with the handpicked features all join together seamlessly in a gem of a project. Well done, well done indeed!
Stream the EP on Spotify or purchase the EP on iTunes.
Unashamed Kingdom Soundtrack For The Misfit | Posted October-29-2020 What You Need To Know
Social Club Misfits have been a mainstay in the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) culture for nearly a decade (2011). Beginning with solo EPs, they’ve amassed a discography of over 15 projects between solo efforts, EPs, and albums. They even experienced a name change during 2016 when they signed with a major label, Capitol Christian Music Group (CMG); adding Misfits to the end.
Marty and FERN represent the Miami, Florida region as their home base, yet reside in the hearts of their fans (Misfits) worldwide. Marty is known for his playful wordplay and skilled rhyme schemes while FERN continuously spits solid bars igniting witty punchlines and street-relevant content.
Feared By Hell is the fourth studio project released since being known as the Social Club Misfits. Fans are treated with a taste of the unique sound the new album illuminates during their two recent EPs titled, Doom and Mood. Framed within the bold statement of the cover art and title, Feared By Hell showcases the talents of the duo and their rooted faith unashamed in full display. Marty even had his creative mind working overtime as he either produced or helped produce nine of the overall tracks.
What It Sounds Like
FERN and Marty present to the people a collection of chapters from their soul fed to the mind and delivered through the lens of God Himself. These songs reveal how God has worked through these two, seasons that felt like hell, and how God brought them atop hands raised over and over. In the chaotic state of our society, these songs are needed. Healing. Victories. Difficult seasons. Praise above all. It’s a journey from the heart outward. A peek inside to see how God works through all situations for His glory!
Even with their extensive catalog of releases, Feared By Hell is their most eccentric and musical project. The variety of soundscapes, production, and featured artists adds to the unique album experience. Core fans will reign praise for the classic lyrical exchanges of the duo. Cultural fans will appreciate the strong Latin presence. Experimental moments exist throughout between production, rhyme schemes, bar for bar, and instrumentation.
Some highlights include “Young Guns” featuring Davies which interjects infectious handclaps and high hats. “Act of God” featuring nobigdyl. kicks off the project and resonates as one of the strongest tracks throughout. “Somas Familia” featuring Blanca is quite refreshing. The driving sounds of an acoustic guitar and various live drums force your body to move melodically with the track. The project wraps up with “Without You” featuring Riley Clemmons. It enforces why hell fears strong belief and practical faith lived out daily. Focus on God and allow the rest of your life to align with His Word and the beauty that Jesus interjects.
Spiritual Highlights
The entire premises of the album speaks to the spiritual walk of Marty and Fern. Feared By Hell in a sense of Christians living out their faith to a point where the devil is trembling. Listeners hear multiple situations and life experiences where God brought the duo literally out of hellish situation one after another.
“I know who to call when I need help / I talk to God I ain’t talking to myself” from “God On My Side” featuring Ty Brasel packages everything perfectly realizing we all need help. When we do, go directly to the source–God. I won’t spoil the beauty within the track titled “Savior” featuring Jeremy Camp, however, it’s basically a worship song to our Jesus rescuing us from the old forming us into something beautifully new.
No worries here, misfits. As usual, the album reeks of God’s fingerprints and outward love for His children.
Best Song On The Record
Quite a few gems exist on Feared By Hell. However, I kept returning to the opener “Act of God” featuring nobigdyl. With this banger, we are treated to Marty’s melodic hook and classic flow. Fern blesses us with some of his strongest bars out of the 12-track buffet of content. Finishing out the track is indie tribe’s nobigdyl. You can always expect witty wordplay smothered in God’s promises and revelations from Dyllie.
Sound-wise, I appreciate the uniqueness of the track. The slowed-down tempo, the calm before the storm. Almost reminiscent of trap meets LOFI. I love how the song speaks to what God does in our lives pre and post Jesus. For most of us, it truly takes an act of God for us to alter our ways and begin a righteous walk with our Creator.
This isn’t your atypical Social Club Misfits album. It’s transcendent. A barrage of cultures coexists throughout. Listeners are injected with a dose of the Latino community, CCM spectrum, and hip-hop vibe mixed into a range of talents expanded. Marty and Fern develop a recipe for success with sprinkles of various sounds across multiple genres. This album cannot be tagged in a specific direction. It’s sonic experimentation and musical prowess reign prevalent. A consistent theme points to God’s supremacy and the call on believers to live loudly. To display faith so extreme the depths of hell tremble in fear. To remain Kingdom-minded. Social Club Misfits continue to remain impactful as artists in multiple creative spaces.
Stream the album on Spotify or purchase the EP on iTunes.
JoshuaGalla_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
