Another Strong Offering | Posted September-02-2013
Ashmont Hill is a CCM group with tight gospel-styled harmonies. Based out of Boston, Ashmont Hill is comprised of Phil Thompson, April Thompson, Deborah Bullock and Wil Bullock. Phil, April and Deborah are siblings, while Wil and Deborah are married. They are all a part of the ministry at Jubilee Christian Church in Boston. They are connected in many ways, but they each bring their own unique taste in music to Ashmont Hill. This year they are back with their third album, The Maze. Zenzo Matoga serves as the producer while he and Phil co-wrote the majority of the songs on the album.
Listening to their songs is actually a privilege to the ears. Case in point, "Love Lifted Me" (not to be confused with the popular hymn of the same name). On this acoustic pop song, they start off in unison and build to a beautiful harmony that causes me to close my eyes and enjoy.
It's been said that being in God's presence and truly experiencing His love totally changes things and forever ruins you to the point of no return. The group wonderfully explains "my heart is Yours" on "Ruined," while special guest Micah Stampley leads in on the vamp, "I am ruined / I am ruined / By Your Love...You take me higher / You love like fire / You take me higher / My heart is Yours."
Praise and worship is another thing that Ashmont Hill is known for. Just listen to the upbeat "To You," featuring some nice guitar work by James Peterson. This song will definitely find its place on the song list for several worship leaders. "I Will Give You Praise (featuring Brian Bullock)" is a high energy song of praise that should be easy for worship teams to learn. Even though the group's harmony is nice on this one, the arrangement is not too complex.
"I Believe" is such a fantastic and beautiful ballad that tugs at the heart strings. The three siblings' father, Bishop Gideon Thompson, issues a quick but inviting call to commit to Christ. The song then builds to a beautiful tag that will surely be a highlight at Ashmont Hill concerts.
Phil's nine-year old daughter Gabby co-wrote and also guests on "Gabby's Song." There is something about the innocence of a child that can touch hearts like no other. This song is no different. Anyone of any age can relate to lyrics like "When I am crying, I know He loves me / When I am looking, I know he's there / When I am thirsty, He is my wellspring / When I am lonely, He is my friend." Listen to this song and it will take sheer willpower not to allow tears to well up in your eyes.
Closing Thoughts:
CCM fans will enjoy The Maze because the style still fits the genre. However, it is the total package of the harmonies, soothing lead vocals, and songwriting that sets it apart. Those who are staunch Gospel music fans, do not turn a deaf ear, because Ashmont Hill is just what we need to bridge more gaps between the CCM and Gospel music genres. In that, God is glorified.
Impacting a Generation | Posted September-02-2013 Drugs, peer pressure, popularity, social media and relationships are just some of the things that teenagers face. Then there are the young TV stars and music artists who face the pressure of growing up and trying to find an identity. We have seen countless numbers of them fall into the abyss of hard living and addictions. These are only some of the reasons why having a rapper like 16-year old KIDD release a quality debut is so important. I knew that Rapzilla would not put so much stock into signing him if he was not something special. His album Murder My Flesh definitely validates their decision.
Tyshane, an 18 year-old producer/beat maker, provides the heat for the title track. This song is needed by Christians and such an anti-culture song. I am not going to keep hammering the point of how impressive it is for a 16-year old rapper who is a Christian to release a dope debut album. He is totally going against the grain of an "anything goes" party age with this song.
KIDD enlists the help of Je'kob (one of my personal favorites) to weave his distorted vocals on the hook of "Welcome to the Jungle." The piano loop, guitar track and subtle drum beat by JGRAMM goes well with KIDD's bars and the hook. The only problem is that this track was used on a Yaves song.
Hip hop heads, prepare to nod your head and enjoy the storytelling on "Too Cool." This anecdotal banger has KIDD rapping about a girl and a guy (two different scenarios) who lived a "fun" life that left them in horrible fates. The girl ended up in jail and the guy was killed. He ends by admonishing the listeners to follow God and not the lies of fast living.
"Jezebel" is a personified look at KIDD's journey with his Jezebel: hip hop. Wit's production is a breath of fresh air, because some of his tracks can sound the same. The key word is "some".
KIDD puts on his producer's hat and lays a dope beat for "Identity Theft." If that's not enough, he paints a vivid picture of a young man who struggles with the person that he should be and ends up making a bad decision. The young man gives his life to Christ, and he realizes that the person whom he was trying to be was stealing his identity in Christ.
I am a firm believer that a great song can be enhanced by a great hook or chorus. Sometimes that hook can also take away from the song. KIDD scores more points for the hooks on this album. Check out "Effigy" featuring JR and "Radical" featuring Skrip. Both features kill their respective hooks!
Bars, bars, bars are spit with a modern day telling of the Tower of Babel on "Royal Lies." Derek Minor starts it off and hands the baton to KIDD who then gives it to Gemstones. Gemstones brings it home like a true "anchor leg" does. Strong finish.
Closing Thoughts:
It's not just impressive. It's well produced and well executed. It could have been mixed a little better and they could have added a little more bass into the songs. KIDD sounds like a veteran, but he never comes off as a know-it-all. Murder My Flesh is not just a bunch of songs thrown on an album. Songs can stand alone, but as a whole, this album is a powerful gift to deliver to a generation of youth who need something concrete to stand on. He offers Christ while keeping it 100% strong throughout. Yes he does have that young sound in his voice, but I will not hold it against him.
Bringing it real, raw and relevant while preaching the Gospel | Posted August-16-2013
There are some rappers whom with first listen, you can what region they are from or what city they are from. It can be a combination of the manner in which they rap, their accent and the beat choices. This is definitely true for rapper Corey Paul.
Corey lives in Houston, Texas, a place where he saw many harsh and rough times growing up. This is also a place where he disrespected and broke the hearts of several women. Thankfully he gave his heart to Jesus at age 17. Fast forward and he is now a part of Frontline Ministries, which is a collection of rappers with the same vision as Corey to bring Jesus into the streets. He releases the properly titled, Grace, Love and Mercy, an album full of jaw-dropping storytelling, mad energy, passion and an honest approach that will help many.
Corey puts it all out there on the intro track, "Grace Love Mercy." He kills it lyrically over a dirty South banger! From the beginning you know that this man has been through a lot and has a great deal to share. He mentions watching his mother shoot his father, which would be enough to devastate a child. Dre Murray's passionate delivery meshes well with Corey's Southern drawl as they paint some vivid pictures on "Black Hearse." Of course when I saw the name, "Body In the Truck" featuring This'l, I was convinced it was almost a part 2 of "Black Hearse." However I was mistaken. It is symbolic for how each rapper's old way of living is dead due to surrendering to Christ. They also talk about dying daily to the flesh, but it's set up as if that flesh and old way of living is a dead body in their trunk. Louie Gray is responsible for the eerie piano loop and the beat that flows perfectly with the subject at hand.
"Ridin Round My City," produced by Mr. Inkredible, hits on the fact that Corey sees God in so many things, but not in the hearts of man. This will be one that could really spark discussion. I like the simplicity of the chorus with Corey singing one line. It works.
It is always good to hear artists dedicate songs to uplifting woman or reminding women of their worth. "Picture Perfect" serves that very purpose. Anthony Silas, sounding very similar to Wille "P-Dub" Moore Jr., sings the hook: "She say, she don't like pictures and cameras make her nervous / Searching for the limelight / couple shots just to get her mind right / And she's been down for so long / Streets turned her out, we trying to put her own / I want you to know that you're worth it / Baby you're picture perfect."
"What Do You See" is a chilled out song that has some "Selah" moments as Corey looks to Jesus in spite of the dreadful experiences he and others have experienced. Frontline co-hort Reconcile matches passion on "Tears Roll" while Anthony Silas' voice is basically smooth like butter. Did I say that?
Closing Thoughts:
There is a lane for Corey Paul and I am so glad that he is doing music. There are people who have been them situations that they feel no one else could understand. Thankfully there are artists like Corey Paul, This'l and Dre Murray who are bringing the combination of their experiences and the hope of Christ to give those people something to identify with. This is an impressive album with only a couple of down moments. I hope that Corey will be able to speak at schools, youth groups and regular church services because he needs to be heard. He is living this "Grace, Love and Mercy."
Declaration of Independence | Posted August-21-2013
Kambino is back with Independence, and he pulls no punches at all. The Explicit Content sticker on the cover could cause means of concern when marketing in the Christian music circle. So why the sticker? Kambino uses the "N word" a few times, and he is also very candid when speaking of past mindsets.
Before you turn a deaf ear to Kambino, know that he is a clever wordsmith with a gritty delivery. He speaks of being an independent artist, free from the opinion of man and living "in dependence on God." Peep the title track for that latter reference.
"Awkward Silence (Warning Shots)" is a nice way to start an album off as Kambino speaks of pleasing God no matter the opposition. Flawless Tracks provides a simple slow banger with a few rhodes and keyboard; just enough for Kam to bring the heat. Many people were wondering what was going on with Kambino and what was taking him so long to release another full-length album. Enter "Eternal (Whole Time)," where he explains that he had to deal with some toxic thinking while confidently adding that his flow is still intact. He plans to raise the standard in hip-hop.
"Chuckin" grabbed me from the very beginning of the song. It began with the hook (chanted by Fly Boy) which says, "Straight go ahead and love it / Yeah I'm screaming 'Yolo' ballin' on a budget / Up and down the yoyo / I want no part of it / With two fingers in the dueces I be chunkin' / Deuces I be chunckin' I'm gone / In a fresh pair of Taylors my shoe game even display what I'm on."
Kam kills his verses speaking of how he is saying goodbye to his old way of living, as well as his old record label (There is still love there). Props again to Flawless Tracks because the beat has a crazy infectious feel that will boom even in factory speakers. Christon Gray, who happens to be Kam's cousin, comes hard on "Winter Flow." Could they do a collaboration album one day? That would be cool, but of course they should not do it just because it would be a cool concept. It really would be dope! Flawless Tracks goes at it again on the beat!
I was very disappointed in the song "Make Believe," because it is very same track that was used on Sean Johnson's "Dear Self," which was released in 2012. Kambino should have done his homework and left that one out. No matter, things get back on track with summer jam, "All My Friends."
This is change of pace because it is dedicated to those friends who died and those who Kam co-labors in ministry with including his ex-Slingshot labelmate, Yaves. Kam's maturity shines on "Beautiful Rain" elucidating the fact that rough times can bring growth and beauty. Lauren Monique so effortless lets her voice flow throughout the song without "doing the most" which is a sign of a good singer.
Kambino is not holding back as he is really trying to bring issues that seem "taboo" in the church to the music market. "Cheers" is a song that raw and uncut. It's an ode to Kam's wife and he really expresses his desire to be intimate with his wife. He went there and he may cause several people to be uncomfortable. Yes, he went there!
Closing Thoughts:
This is an album that deserves a good listen! Yes there are the misses of using the same track and the occasional use of the "N word." It is still a banger and Kambino is still one of my favorite rappers. I actually find this album refreshing and I applaud his honest approach. Christian rap should not be so cookie cutter where it's content is only for those who are basically shielded from the rest of the world.
It is important that you listen to his interludes to really hear more of his heart. Although this statement is used too flippantly, I would definitely put him up there with some of the best rappers in hip-hop, period. With 18 tracks and two edited versions of "Chuckin" and "Crabs", there is enough to chew on.
Tye Tribbett declares God is Greater | Posted August-06-2013
Tye Tribbett is an electrifying artist who graced churches, arenas, etc with his group Greater Anointing (GA) and his band Sound Check for many years. Seasons change, and with that Greater Anointing and Sound Check disbanded.
Tye went through a time of healing and restoration for a grave mistake that he made. He put out a solo album, Fresh, which was a studio album that was different from what was usually heard from his previous work. He now has a mostly new group of singers and a new band. This has been met with some reservation and even criticism from fans. This new group, however, has been going out with him on dates and they have proved that they are a force to be reckoned to with. With Tye as their leader, they are blessing many and gaining new fans. He decided he wanted to record a live album in both Florida and California.
They went out and did it and produced the new album, Greater Than. It's the same electrifying Tye with a fresh batch of high energy songs of praise, beautiful ballads, complex vocal arrangements and phenomenal musicianship.
"Nobody" gets things off to rousing start and lends itself to the tecno-styled "Everything." Anyone that has heard a Tye Tribbett song or has seen him live knows that he likes to take risks. He is one for innovation in Gospel music or going where no one will go. So what does he do this time? He borrows elements from George Harrison's "I've Got My Mind Set On You" for his song "Stayed On You." This is so Tye! It's topped with chants from him and the group, quirky synth playing and signature guitar work from Tyler Logan and Dai Mayazaki.
Tye has seemed to master the balance of innovation, some choreography and praise and worship. The words to "You Are Good" are just that, "You are good," but when it comes to worshipping God, sometimes only a few words are needed. The "Worship Medley" is a combination of modern worship songs "There is Nothing Like" and "Glory to God". You will be drawn in to sing parts like "I love You forever and we'll worship forever" because this is a powerful moment meant for the congregation, etc to join in.
"Beauty for Ashes" is just a good Gospel song with great lyrics. This ballad features the soaring tenor vocals of Emory Diggs and this "brotha" can "sang." The songs takes an unexpected, but very beautiful turn. It turns into a pop ballad—almost like something that you would hear in a Tony award-winning Broadway play. It will be hard not to be moved to tears as Chelsea Balentine, Danielle Davis and Mumen Ngenge each sing a line dedicated to how God turned a detrimental situation into something of a masterpiece (beauty for ashes).
The singers are doing their goooood singing on "Better" which some call good "flat-footed sanging". It's not just that. The beginning of the song features a dope drum solo by Bernard "Tre" Lambert III and midway through the song it morphs into a ballad taken out of the catalog of Kirk Franklin. It says, "I may not be finished / but I'm getting better / Still may have some scars / But you make it better." They eventually go into the tag of "Better!" Church! Only Tye Tribbett can incorporate various elements in a song without it sounding like chaos put to music.
The title track will require multiple listens just to grasp the magnitude of the sheer skill of the singers. The way they modulate during the vamp is crazy and Zacardi Cortez and Tye stay with them every step of the way. "He Turned it" starts off as a dramatic number and quickly turns into all out shouting good time. This one has became a fan favorite during Tye's recent appearances and rightfully so. You have to see them perform it live especially to watch Tye, Jermaine Molly and Robert Rivera dance all over the stage oozing with joy.
Closing Thoughts:
Tye is back with a sheer vengeance. It's all there. Jaw-dropping music and vocal arrangements. Powerful moments of praise and worship. Songs of not only encouragement, but ones that serve as soundtracks for ones next level in life. "Greater Than" is one of the best releases of 2013.
Brooklyn Tabernacle is back again to assure us that God's love must lead the way | Posted July-27-2013
Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir is well known around the United States and even the world. This multi-racial choir is known for its original songs, powerful remakes and warming the hearts of the hurting. Carol Cymbala continues to lead this hardworking aggregation as they work tirelessly to put out great music year after year. This time they do so in the form of their new album, Love Lead the Way. Cymbala, Onaje Jefferson and Jason Michael Webb wrote almost half of the songs on the album.
The choir delivers their rendition of Preshea Hilliard's song of worship, "Oh How We Love You,” and William McDowell's huge hit "I Won't Go Back” in pure Brooklyn Tab fashion. The great thing is that they never try to "push the envelope” because there really is no need to do so. The vocal arrangements are on point, but church friendly. They keep the complexity level of the vocals at a minimum and that way, choir directors won't stray away from singing their songs.
However, they can "flip the script” and show why they are admired by even those who are not Christians.
If you caught the presidential inauguration in January, you were treated to a stunning offering of the "Battle Hymn of the Republic” courtesy of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Thankfully it was included on this album. Horn arrangements help to bring a sense of patriotism while the string instruments are melded throughout help to add the beauty. Cymbala and Webb do an amazing job of arranging so that even some of the more conservative churches would love and adore this version. "In God We Trust” is nothing short of glorious and one that I would love to hear them sing in person. The sopranos showcase their range with a few soaring high notes further showing the talent and classically-trained vocalists that are scattered throughout the group.
Onaje Jefferson takes the lead on the uptempo "We Lift Your Name," one of the seven songs written by him, Cymbala and Webb. They should think of writing for other artists under the name of "Jefferson, Cymbala and Webb." Onaje does his good singing while the choir stays with him every step of the way. "Let God Arise" is a quite enjoyable Gospel song that has a hint of that Richard Smallwood song. Gospel enthusiasts will definitely understand this statement.
Closing Thoughts:
Those who enjoy Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir will enjoy Love Lead The Way. The same goes for the fans of clear, crisp singing with songs of adoration and love for God. There were a couple of songs that were could have been left out, but this is an album that I strongly recommend. Great work Brooklyn Tab!
Dre Murray raises the bar and starts a great conversation | Posted July-16-2013
There are times when an album that is highly anticipated can disappoint listeners. There are several reasons for this. It could be it just didn't live up to its hype or the songs just didn't mesh well as an album. Sometimes it is because people scan through it at first and do not stop to listen to what artist is trying to say and the fact that he or she may be using different production than they used on the previous album.
Dre Murray has a highly anticipated album on Collision Records, and the hype more than matches the product. Gold Rush: Maybe One Day has an intriguing title and album cover (in which his head is covered in gold). Wit and Swoope are a big part of the production on the album with help from Wes Pendleton, Tragic Hero, Big Juice and Michael Guaglione.
I'm definitely encouraged by this album, although it is not an album that was meant to encourage on every song. It is encouraging due to the fact that it deals with issues that the "laymen" deal with. It is one that you can buy for that family member who feels that the church does not understand their drive (even if it is misguided) for wealth, success. This is an album to give out, but you can also listen and think about your own struggles with the pull of what the world views as success. So many REAL issues are touched.
One unique aspect is how the title of the album is broken into two tracks. After Propaganda brings an incredible and important poetic piece titled "Ramses The Great," it goes right into "Maybe One Day." "Maybe One Day" starts with haunting chants from what sounds like a boys choir, which sets the tone for the Swoope beat that changes with each verse and chorus.
Dre takes the persona of one who strives for the "one day" of being on top of the world—which is basically an illusion created by greed. Christon Gray sings the chorus and delivers a mighty serving of crooning and clean falsetto vocals. On "Gold Rush" he gives an autobiographical look at life growing up in Houston as a young man motivated by a drive to make money and have "baller" status. How ironic is it to have a producer from Philadelphia, Wes Pendleton, lace the track about life in Houston.
There are people who feel that they have to obtain the most money and be the envy of all who come in contact with. However they know that when they are dead, they are not in control of their fate.
It is almost as if they want to be worshipped like a modern-day Pharaoh. Thus the reason for the title of the song of the same name. Tragic Hero sounds different singing the chorus with autotuned vocals, but he nails it. Not sure why it took Wit, Swoope, Big Juice, & Michael Guaglione to provide the production for "Fiend," but this song is a banger. The subtlety of Guaglione's guitar and the beat by the rest of the team really adds to the point that Dre is trying to get across. Dre explains that both the seller and the buyer of drugs are both fiends who are dependent on one another. Verse 1 is from the dealer's point of view and the second verse is from the perspective of the buyer.
Alcoholism has plagued the alcoholic and those closest to them. In music, there has been stories told of those whose mother or father fell to this addiction and the effect that it had on the family. Seldom do you hear it from the perspective of the alcoholic themselves. This is what Dre does on the pop ballad, "Letter In a Bottle" featuring the soft rock/alternative vocal styles of Michael Guaglione.
Dre gets poetic on "Red Light": "The sky is the reddest that I've ever seen / Your face be the brightest blue / Your pockets painted with a shade of green / I swear I'm missing every part of you." This track comes from the perspective of someone who is looking back reminiscing of the days of old and fighting the temptation to go back to that life before Christ. Christon Gray sings wonderfully over Wit and Tragic Hero's guitar-laced production.
"Hollywood Heist" features the smooth singing of Sean C. Johnson, Gray's emceeing skills and Swoope's skillful work on the rhodes. Wit's jazz laden production topped with a sax sample shows his growth as a producer and the chemistry of crew at Collision records. With the pursuit of riches, success, etc., Dre shows the struggle he has as God is drawing him on "All Alone" and the struggle that a man has with himself on "Gray Tape."
Closing Thoughts:
This is a heavy album. Dre keeps getting better and better lyrically, and this is an album that he can take back "home" to people struggling on the streets of Houston.
One who lives in "suburbia" could also identify with the constant climb up that ladder to achieve the utopia of success that will make them the "talk of the town." It is for those who have felt that they were alone in their struggles or who are suffering as a result of a parent's struggle. Dre keeps it real and relevant. This was an album with masterful production and heavy lyrical content.
Kairos is an album that you will not soon forget | Posted July-08-2013
"Kairos—a moment of time that presents an opportunity for change." Some translate it as God's special time. This ancient Greek term is the basis and title for Armond's new album, Kairos. It is also about connecting to a deeper relationship with God. It is evident that Armond put a great deal of time writing for this new project. I knew that I would have to listen intently and grasp Armond's intent on this 18-track project.
Things get started with the Sandman-produced "Genesis Revelation," a song about looking at things from the right perspective. Some things may seem like the ending for some or one man's treasure. Looking through "spiritual eyes," the Kairos moment can be revealed so that you can start to move forward in your destiny.
Armond explains how careful preparation and being in Christ prepares you for that moment on the title track, "Kairos." Doc lays the boom-bip over a nice sample that adds some old school soul.
Kambino brings his gritty style to contrast Armond's on "Marathon," a song that is perfect for Kambino—again showing Armond's meticulous approach to the album.
"One time in the air for your dreams / Two times for everything in between / That's everything that you need / I put my hands to and do it cuz I believe / Are you sleeping or are you dreaming?" That's the hook to "The Dreamer," a slow banger produced by Doc. It is one that allows you to ponder, be challenged and inspired. I envision people with their hands up, bobbing their head and making the "stank face" while listening to it or seeing Armond perform it live in concert.
Another important portion of the album is the spoken word interludes by Armond and others. These help bring the album together. Armond asks if someone knows what "Love Is," which is a question that has been answered in so many different ways. Thankfully he presents this song in a very relatable manner, yet points to the ultimate answer of God being Love.
Why is "Frostbite" so enjoyable? Is it tenor/baritone vocals of Sean C. Johnson? It could be because he kills it. Maybe it is subtle percussion coupled with the keys and rhodes. Throw in Barbara Fant waxing poetic at the end of the song. And don't overlook Armond's verses.
"Father's Day" is a touching dedication to Armond's father, who shows his obvious appreciation with the ode. There is so much to mention when listening to "Walking Contradiction," where Armond shares some inner turmoil and thoughts. Doc comes through again with another sample heavy track with sped up vocals. Dopeness. Don't get thrown out by the metaphors and analogies on "Inside," just hear him out. Armond is not one to keep it simple, but he wants his listeners to dig deep. Japhia Life comes in and delivers while DJ Natty-T brings the beat.
There's plenty to chew on and plenty to contemplate, but don't overlook songs like, "Makes No Sense" and "Lost It All," featuring Jae Mitch and BumpsINF. These songs display the fact that failing God at times, losing things and friend, struggles can be used to help one embrace those Kairos moments.
Closing Thoughts:
How can an emcee have so much in one album? There is definitely some riding music, but it is one that will require several listens. With each listen, more and more will be gained. The Kairos album will have you looking at your life, your relationship with God and your destiny. How many albums actually do that? The album will be on iTunes soon, but it can be bought here.
Isaac is back with a more urban-edged album | Posted July-08-2013
Let’s get this straight: Isaac Carree has sung with the likes of John P. Kee and Hezekiah Walker, was in the group Men of Standard, currently sings with Kirk Franklin and still has time to be a solo artist? Yes to all of the above.
Isaac is not stopping. A man who has acknowledged his own mistakes, Isaac releases the properly titled Reset. This offering has a slightly more urban edge than his previous solo effort, but Isaac’s voice really is right for R&B/urban styled music.
He whet the appetite of his fans with the release of his first single "Clean This House," which chronicles a man acknowledging his "stuff" and asking for God’s cleansing. R. Kelly (yes that R. Kelly) is featured on the remix, and he and Isaac trade off with fervor and passion. Like him or not, R. Kelly has a way of channeling a certain desperation and cry out to God. Honestly, this song actually sounds more like an R. Kelly song than an Isaac Carree song.
To go along with the theme of starting anew, Isaac allows R&B artists Reka Brown, Mike Jay "MJ" Jimenez and Joe to do their own vocal interpretation on "Reset" I, II and III,respectively. The vocals are smooth and well done by each artist.
What you will not find on Reset is an album full of songs with deep metaphorical meanings. However, these are songs that the common man will be able to identify with. Isaac’s voice has always had a youthfulness that draws both the young and young at heart. Enjoy his “butter” vocals and background vocal arrangements on "Never" while also being inspired to do more on the adult-contemporary "Make His Name Famous."
For "So Glad" he invites his mentor Kirk Franklin along with Lecrae and Kierra Sheard to basically do what they do best. This song has a hip hop edge, and it is getting play on sites such as Rapzilla.com and DaSouth.com. It is a definite candidate for the anthem of the summer. Underrated Twyse adds clever punch lines to "Knock Knock." This is a song that is calling people to ask Jesus into their heart, and it’s cool to hear this as an upbeat jam that could be a celebratory invitation at a concert. That would be different!
During church services, when the pastor says something enriching that "hits home" or "steps on toes," there will be cries from the congregation to the pastor "you better preach!" An "aha moment" comes as Isaac makes this into a song. Slow and chill is the style while the call and response of the chorus is similar to what happens in church. Here’s the chorus: "He forgave me ‘Preach!’ / Then he delivered me…’Preach!’ / Then he saved me ‘Preach!’ / He’s a doctor…’Preach!’ / And a provider…’Preach!’ / He is everything you need Him to be / You better preach! Preach! Say that word!”
Isaac invites one of his favorite singers, Leandria Johnson, to duet with him on the churchy ballad "Blessing In Your Lesson." The title is a little cliché, but the honest testimony and transparency of Leandria Johnson helps to drive home a big point: God will help people out of what they feel is their worst trial or mistake. Kevin Lemmons and Higher Calling do a wonderful job singing without it being too busy.
Two of my favorite songs are the swingy "But God" featuring James Fortune and Right Now. Guitars, potent vocals and organ all add to the latter song of declaration. “But God” is infectious vocally and musically. The message is there of course, but musicians will get excited over the horns, keys, drums and organs. Isaac is "sangin' his behind off" (please don’t try to get a visual; slang does not always make sense).
Closing Thoughts:
Reset is a rather enjoyable album of declaration, redemption and starting anew. Although obviously urban in direction, it does veer into pop and Gospel territories also. He has two bonus tracks for those who buy it from Wal-mart, and another bonus track via iTunes. Whether it is a big or small issue, everyone should always invite God to mold him or her.
Tony Tillman (formerly known as Brothatone) just released the full-length album, Mic Check, earlier this year. He is back with The Tillman EP, which is a short-but-sweet six songs with a mainstream sound. The album serves to encourage and deal with situations that the average person deals with.
Insert lead single, "Tailored," featuring the rich alto vocals of Beckah Shae. One verse is about a man who feels insignificant and the other verse about a woman who feels she that her body does not match up to the average woman. Over this synth-heavy R&B track, Tillman and Shae assure people that they have been "tailor-made" by God.
One listen to "Hourglass" and you will think, "That's my jam!" because of the smooth hook and mid-tempo beat. It's basically a summer jam where the sun roof is down and you are taking a cruise down the highway. Chad Jones, Tedashii and Tillman all spit a verse around the theme of making the most of our time while we are here on the earth. RMG fans will be happy with "Psycho" because Tillman and Canon bring the Southern edge and rapid-fire delivery that they have been known for respectively.
There are times where rappers take chances and either take the singing route or decide to broaden their horizons and rap over different style of music. Tillman does the latter and it works.
Insert "Heaven (Acoustic)," featuring Jordan Love on vocals and Out of the Dust on the instruments. Featuring only an acoustic guitar and keyboard, the chorus basically sums it all up: "Love's so hard to find / No hope in this life / only pain / It will change when we all get to heaven / He will dry your eyes / Fear will subside / He will change everything when we all get to heaven." So will you like this version or the version with the beat and some bars by Mr. Sho Baraka? Both are great and they have their own strengths.
I am a sucker for straight hip-hop, so my head starts to nod when I listen to "Tillman." It's a straight "hip-hop 101" banger where Tillman explains his purpose of using that last name.
In the movie Coming to America, the barber—one of the many characters played by Eddie Murphy—explains how he wants to call Mohammed Ali by the name that his momma gave him, Cassius Clay. Well surprise, Tillman is not Tony's real name. He explains that he uses "Tillman" because he is a person that tills the ground for Christ. That's clever without being corny.
Closing Thoughts:
An appetizer, a filler, a nugget are just a few words to describe this EP. Well, filler my sound negative and incorrect because he released an album earlier this year. Nevertheless, Tillman EP is a dope release by Tony Tillman.
DwayneLacy_NRT's Music and Book Reviews 
