Shonlock Still Lives in Diverse City
Posted March 10, 2014
By DwayneLacy_NRT, Staff Reviewer
Welcome to the Shonlock experience. Glad that you could make it, but you are probably wondering what to expect. Expect to find a little of everything to satisfy those who like a variety of music in one setting. Also be prepared for high-energy music with metaphors and the message of Christ both hidden and overt. Get ready as Shonlock offers up his new one, A Night to Remember.
"You Know I Don't Play" has Shonlock rapping over a kickdrum only while Demon Hunter's Ryan Clark brings a grungy rock edge as he sings over driving guitar and drums. Both guys invite the listeners to gain the edge that they have by accepting the living water that is only offered by Jesus. Shonlock is an adjunct member of the Diverse City crew. So it a refreshing reunion of 'Lock and TobyMac on the pulsating "Transformed." Passion overflows throughout because of the joy for the change that only God can bring.
New single, "I Like To Win" would be an otherwise great song, but it borrows a few too many elements from Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' "Can't Hold Us" for my taste—not lyrically, but rather in the musical arrangements. This will surely be a go-to song for live performances, and ESPN already has picked it up for its March Madness soundtrack.
The ability to take chances is another one of 'Lock's strong points and he makes sure that his musical risks are not forced or contrived. He dabbles in folk music on the feel good, "My Choice is You." This song shows his ever improving vocals and causes me to ask this question: Does Shonlock want to do a more acoustic album? Hmmmm.
Soul Glow Activator of Family Force 5 fame guest appears to add an extra punch on the banger, "Kinfolk." This song could serve as a good mission statement for those who want to explain what the purpose of the Christian community is. This life in Christ is not meant to be a selfish life, but where we add more to our "family." As Soul Glow exclaims, "We are the ones" to do it.
Closing Thoughts:
A Night To Remember is what is to be expected to the Shonlock experience. This time there is an extra zest added to accent it. This is a solid offering from a brother who started off dancing behind R. Kelly and Alliyah. He has carved his on niche while offering a message of hope.
Song to Download:
"Kinfolk"
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