Deep House for Deep 'Renewal' Posted September 22, 2020 By MarkRyan_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need To Know DJ AJ Mora has been producing and performing house music for more than three decades. A prolific DJ, producer, and remixer, AJ is a legendary pioneer of electronic dance music (EDM). His most recent full-length album, Renewal, is a collection of house and techno-infused tracks that will have you dancing and vibing.
What It Sounds Like
Renewal, released on Deeplife Records, is a house album with 15 tracks, three of which are remixes of the modern worship classic, "Reckless Love" featuring AJ's sister Gabee on vocals. The production is clean and the basslines pulsate in typical house music fashion. With the beats per minute staying in a consistent 120 to 125 range, the music is continuous.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights:
The most spiritual song on the album would be the remixes of "Reckless Love." However, with the constant, meditative drums, the entire album can be a spiritual experience. With this in mind, the progressive house track, "Persevere," encourages us that even though in this life we may have many troubles we shall persevere.
Best Song On The Record
Legendary producer Eddie Amador lends his talents to the album with a remix of "Renewal," which is only available when purchasing the entire album. His treatment increases the tempo from 124 to 126 BPM, which slightly changes the vibe from deep house to house giving it a slightly more uptempo vibe.
Final Word
EDM in its purest form is rarely heard in Christian circles given its relationship to raves and the lifestyle that surrounds such events. EDM, however, influences the majority of pop music and is infused into many worship artists such as Elevation Youth and Hillsong Young & Free. House music, with its inherent repetitive bass and drumlines, allows for meditation and prayer without the interference of vocals. AJ Mora's Renewal is an opportunity for those new to the genre to expand their horizons and incorporate something new into their prayer routines.
