Representing God in the Country
Posted August 04, 2014
By DwayneLacy_NRT, Staff Reviewer
Canton Jones has to be one of the hardest working artists in Gospel/Christian music. He consistently puts out music while taking care of his wife and kids. He is also the student pastor of New Hope Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Somehow, he also has time to travel to do concerts and is constantly recording features on albums of a variety of artists'. This year he releases God City U.S.A, his most complete album to date.
EDM gets a nod on the Fred Jerkins III/Iz produced "Let's Get It Started," a fun track to jam to. Tonio, previously heard on Cajo's mixtape Lust, Drugs & Gospel, lends a hand on "I Can't Help It," and the result is a song that one can definitely go crazy on. Looking back at all of the storms and sin that God has brought him through, Cajo's passion is definitely felt. The turn up continues as Canton goes "Crazy" topped off with a sick drum solo at the end.
The great thing about Cajo is the way that he utilizes new rappers and mentors up and coming artists. He makes sure to include his friends on different albums to give them exposure. This bodes well for "My Team" featuring Big Ran, Tonio, singer/rapper, Erica Cumbo and Mark Griffin. The track is bananas as it features dubstep and outer space synthesizers, morphing into simple percussion for some of the verses. Although "We In Here" features song stealer D-Maub along with Uncle Reece and G.L.O., it does not fully come together.
Canton was also a worship leader at his former church, and he definitely finds space to have a time of worship during his concerts. So it is fitting when you hear "Glory to God," which could serve as an anthem for some of the hardest brothers who want to give praise to God. This album has so many gems, but "No One Greater" is the standout song. Ryan Horton sings the chorus, proclaiming that God is second to none. Cajo does his signature singing/rapping hybrid that accents the already powerful chorus.
"You Are" has a CCM edge to it, featuring an acoustic guitar, melodic piano and the simple but refreshing vocals of John Waller. This shows the versatility of Canton and his appreciation for simply worshipping the Lord. Smooth is a word to describe Cajo's duet with another hard working artist/radio announcer, Darlene McCoy. This pairing works well, and those who are not familiar with Darlene McCoy should know that she has a voice that gives so much without overpowering the song.
Closing Thoughts:
God City U.S.A. shows again that Canton Jones is serious about keeping God in his message and this country. Though he has been criticized in some circles for the way he sometimes uses prosperity gospel themes, he continues to grow and minister. It should be noted that there are not songs of that nature on this album. With 17 tracks total, a variety of styles are successfully incorporated.
Song to Download Now:
"No One Greater" (Get it on iTunes here.) View All Music And Book Reviews By DwayneLacy_NRT | View DwayneLacy_NRT's Profile
|
