NRT's CHH contributor Joshua Galla collects what's new in Christian Hip-Hop and Urban Soul for the week of Friday, July 23, 2021. (Photo: Steven Malcolm)
Each week, dozens of singles and a handful of projects are released in the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) and Urban Soul spaces. Below, we listen to a few highlights and list the rest for your own discovery. As always, follow our New Christian Rap & Hip Hop playlist on Spotify and Apple Music to listen to all the latest.
All Is True EP by Steven Malcolm
4Against5’s Steven Malcolm released his first project of 2021. Leading up to this summer release, Malcolm released two of the included songs as singles, “Andale” and “Glory On Me” featuring Childish Major and Taylor Hill. He doesn’t fit the industry standard of constant releases, however, what he does release is always sonic quality with incredible content lyrically. All Is True continues its trend of solid releases from one year to the next.
The EP begins with the self-titled track. It’s one of the most transparent songs Malcolm has released within his discography. He details his family life from childhood to the present. The simple production provides an acapella-like vibe. Next, “We Goin Up” returns to Malcolm’s musical roots of anthems filled with powerful bass, witty wordplay, and constant energy. “Autopilot” stands out as my favorite from the EP. As usual, the incredibly included wordplay will be insanely slept on. The content Malcolm includes from bar to bar could fill multiple books of greatness. He wraps up the project with a worship-infused track titled, “Glory On Me.” This EP may only contain five tracks; however, it feels complete. Listeners are treated to the rawness from the heart of Malcolm, treated to a few bangers, and concluded with pointing all glory back to God. Mission accomplished. Stream All Is True on Spotify here.
Dru Bex x Quinten Coblentz - "Personal"
Canadian-bred Dru Bex and Ohio’s own Quinten Coblentz team up for one of the best singles of 2021. “Personal” exhibits Bex’s strengths on multiple levels. His talent to rhyme, his talent to sing, and his talent to artistically create a mental picture through lyricism. Listeners can literally feel the emotions Bex conveys throughout the track, powerful. I won’t ruin it, but the track ends on quite a special note cementing all the pieces together as quite a special effort. Stream “Personal” on Spotify here.
GB - "Night Mode"
Indie rapper GB delights listeners with his latest single of 2021, "Night Mode." The track is a solid vibe whether it's been a rough day at work or you're headed into the weekend looking for sonic motivation. This one you can turn up, close your eyes, and just take in the smooth delivery and crisp bass feeding into your ears. Stream "Night Mode" on Spotify here.