Ten Spaces to Perfection
Posted April 24, 2017
By JoshuaGalla_NRT, Staff Reviewer
Lawren exploded onto the Christian hip-hop scene in 2015 with his first EP release titled HVNTS. Equipped with purpose and a solid mentor (Marty from Social Club Misfits), Lawren moved forward to use his gifting with music to inspire, reach and influence. Just over a year and a half later, Pieces was released in August 2016, and As You Pass Go is set to release April 28 in 2017. The current project may only be a handful of tracks, but the content found in each song pulls the weight of a full-length release.
There is no greater calling upon us as believers than the Great Commission described in the book of Matthew, which is the driving concept behind this EP. Lawren expresses how we as believers pass from the old to a new life saved by Christ. Believers are called to go out sharing their testimony and faith, as disciples are collected like properties on a game board.
From the "Slums," traveling on the nearby "Railroads" through "South Miami Heights" while finding "Balance" in between, As You Pass Go highlights Lawren's perspectives through struggles and victories. Lawren's brilliance through slick word play, smooth cadence and creative concepts is evident regardless of the track. He is one of the few artists who can intertwine clear vocals with trap beats to the point where both seem inseparable.
In the just under 20 minutes of music, not a moment is wasted or skipable. "Railroads" hits fans like a train off track: with extreme force and no brakes. Lawren's faith is expressed vividly and openly as his love for Christ holds no filter. The first single released, "Slums," is a sonically pleasing exchange between WHATUPRG, Ty Brasel and Lawren, crafted into one of 2017's hottest singles.
"Balance" featuring ikilledmarlon possesses solid replay value. From the classic "Timberland-esque" repetition of the "find my balance" portion of the hook to the lyrical onslaught of pristine rhythmic flow, a few listens are required to digest the conceptual meaning of balance from Lawren's perspective. Rounding out the EP is "South Miami Heights," paying homage to Lawren's hometown and past experiences alongside with the title track, which speaks for itself as an incredible audio example of lyrical perfection. The track establishes Lawren as one of the best hip-hop emcees out there.
The Bottom Line: Lawren "monopolizes" the game with this release as each track is unique, trademarked with its own vibe. As You Pass Go will stay with listeners for months to come based on the amazing combination of cadence, flow, wordplay and lyrical breakdown. This project highlights Lawren's passion for reaching souls for Christ and impacting lives, certifying this release as a "must own."
Song To Download Now:
"Balance" featuring ikilledmarlon (Get it on iTunes here.) View All Music And Book Reviews By JoshuaGalla_NRT | View JoshuaGalla_NRT's Profile
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