The God Over Money roster is continuing to grow and blossom into a full-on movement. Selah the Corner dropped two mixtapes in the last few years and finally whet everyone's appetite for his new album when he released the single "Highpotenoose." Now Memoirs of a Perfect Life is finally here.
The producers who helped create the 18 track album are Wit, KP, 42 North, Tone Jonez and Soundnami. Selah created a documentary to highlight the process of making the album and to give insight into his name and mission. In saying "I am the Corner," he emphasized that he would be "that thing that redirects you assertively towards God." That statement is for anyone regardless of his or her profession.
Selah's mom is featured, talking about how even from birth how he physically stood out as a child, and that was a foreshadowing of the fact that he would always be different. This serves as an intro to "Intro Vert." One thing that Selah has established is his ability to incorporate clever punchlines over a variety of beats while staying true to that NYC hip-hop that influenced him. "Masquerade" has Selah explaining why he can only be "100" in a world that needs hope and nothing fake.
On "Sticc and Moov," Eshon Burgundy features and spazzes over the subtle snare and toms with a heavy kick. So many differences are addressed with Jered Sanders on "Same Bird." The issue of church unity (or the lack thereof) among predominately black and predominantly white churches is addressed while both rappers smoothly flow over the Wit and 42 North backpacking beat. Brotherhood and fighting together is the theme, and it continues on "Cliché." Selah and Bizzle address the critics and the themes saturating mainstream rap. They pull no punches, even critiquing artists that rap about acts that they clearly do not commit.
I almost spazzed on "Anthemic," which is obviously the goal. Wit provides the soundtrack to the head-nodding while Selah creates an anthem to speak to societal ills.
The Bottom Line: Memoirs of a Perfect Life is a winner, another album for GOM to use to impact a culture that needs hope. We waited for a long time for a full length album by Selah the Corner, and thankfully, he delivered!
Dedication to Family and Fatherhood | Posted June-07-2017
Beleaf is back with his latest and final album. His Beleaf in Fatherhood videos on YouTube have taken off, and he has gained quite a following. The constant touring to support his albums has weighed on him, and he desires to be the best husband and father that he can be by stepping back to focus on his family. The album In Fatherhood showcases a different Beleaf than the one we saw on the darker (but amazing) album Black Sugar, Red Pills.
This body of work was not an easy feat; it took patience and care. Beleaf worked with producers (and frequent collaborators) Anthony Cruz, Erik Kingsley, DSTL and JRuckers. The result was songs like "Activate," which includes the dreamy chords and syncopated drum patterns courtesy of Erik Kingsley and Santhosh. The song shows that it's the progression of pain and trials that allowed Beleaf's faith and strength to be jumpstarted.
Kingsley's chords stay chill and subtle against the banging beat on "Lightweight." His flow comes with rapid fire as he presents this autobiographical look at a day at his house with his kids. Andy Mineo's feature on the album is not highly marketed or mentioned on promos, but he jumped on "Ain't This Life is Perfect" and killed it. Before Mineo spits his 16, Beleaf spits about feeling content with where God has him and the joy of being with his wife.
This family theme is not some contrived way to get a pat on the back from the Christian community. The album is something that is overflowing naturally out of Beleaf's life. Songs like "We Gon' Make It Out (feat. Gracy)" and "You're Okay (feat. ABIV)" show his need to provide for his family while appreciating and assuring his wife that he will not leave her. His wife Yvette leaves an encouraging voicemail on the track, praising Beleaf for his love and attention to their kids. The way they cut up the sound bites of Beleaf's children is so ill on "Tribe," surely making this a family affair. There is a definite ode to Tribe Called Quest on this one.
The musical journey continues on "Plate" with Beleaf killing it over his own beatboxing. "Baby Daddy" is an uptempo jam that also serves as the album outro. Vocals from Kyra De'Nae helps to give that funk edge that we would hear on Outcast or Kendrick Lamar records.
The Bottom Line: Beleaf presents an album that will make us want more from him, but it's very commendable that he is taking a step back to focus on fatherhood. If In Fatherhood is the last we hear from Beleaf, I am content.
Song to Download Now:
"Ain't This Life Perfect" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Chris Cobbins is Back | Posted June-06-2017
Chris Cobbins has been in the game for a long time. Some of us first heard from him when he was singing hooks on songs by artists on Reach Records. Then he partnered with the producer Cheese Beats (aka the Kraken) to release a few projects. Now he's back with The Beauty in the Beast, a five song EP.
Chris takes an aggressive approach to facing hindrances and no longer losing time on "Face My Enemy." From losing his brother to losing faith in having a child, challenges were taking the "breath" out of him. Thankfully his wife kept believing, and he now has his child, but Chris is saying "enough is enough" with this track. His baritone gets some distortion to coincide with his message to give it a bigger effect. "Good God" is a heater thanks to the drum patterns on the chorus mimicking the tom toms on the drums and his sped up vocal revamping of the old school call and response "God is a good God / Yes He is."
Crooning to hard-hitting beats has always been a signature for Chris Cobbins. Thankfully, he sticks to what works. A dope rapper could spit a mean 16 over the "O.O.M.E (Out of My Element)" track, however, Chris serves this track well enough on his own. Many should be able to identify with trying to fit in with the rest of world while straying away from God. The song is poetically different from other songs centered on this topic: "Lost in this noise and I can't afford it / My reality, my reality is distorted / If You're telling me this is a test, I'm failing it / I'm out of my element / It just don't seem right, I don't fit here / Would You restore my heart?"
Other strong tracks to check out are "Good," which has a small taste of the classic song "Tainted Love," and "Solo."
The Bottom Line: Chris Cobbins is far from being done, and The Beauty in the Beast was a good way to show he still has skills. As he stated in "Face My Enemy," he has the "Gospel with him."
Song to Download Now:
"O.O.M.E. (Out of My Element)" (Get it on iTunes here.)
Starting Strong | Posted June-01-2017
Being an independent artist can be one of the toughest things to do in the music industry. However, if you succeed and find a strong following for your music, it can be extremely beneficial. Jermaine Dolly embodies what happens when you grind it out and never quit in order to fulfill your dreams. This former background singer for Tye Tribbett has even sold one of his old mixtapes out of the back of his trunk. No longer independent, Jermaine is now signed with By Any Means Necessary in partnership with Fred Jerkins III's Darkchild Gospel.
Jermaine sent his single "You" to several media outlets, and his sense of humor, witty videos and outgoing personality served him well. From the success of this one song, Jermaine traveled the country ministering. "You" was his only official single for almost two years before he released his long-awaited full length album, The Dolly Express.
"Waiting" has some hints of Earth, Wind and Fire and Chicago with the build-ups and synth arrangements also heard in a few Prince ballads. Dolly sings in his full voice while incorporating his strong falsetto to sing of being patient to hear the voice of God. Meanwhile, "Serve" features Dolly softly singing of claiming strong allegiance to God through any accolades or hardships he faces. Midway through, the song takes a brief moment to build to a driving ballad, only to return to the easy listening sound it began with.
"Get On the Train" has an old school vibe to it, while Jermaine takes a clear cue from singers like Larry Blackman of Cameo as inspiration behind his singing on the jumping "Yeah, Yeah, Yeah." "I Don't Wanna Be Moses" is one that I cannot get enough of. The message of not giving up before you are able to fulfill some great things clearly resonates. The groove and beat just click, creating an infectious song that is hard to get out of my head.
The Bottom Line: The Dolly Express is a strong debut for Jermaine Dolly, and I am really excited for all of his success. With a tireless work ethic, hilarious personality and a strong trust in God, this is only the beginning.
Jered Sanders Keeps the Music Coming | Posted May-30-2017
Jered Sanders, signed to Bizzle's God Over Money label, released Nobody Famous earlier this year, which ironically garnered him even more attention. He has released a lot of music in the last few years, backed by his raw hip-hop delivery. Now he graces us with a new mixtape, Verseatility, featuring him spitting over popular and obscure instrumentals. Thankfully the beats chosen represent Jered's delivery well.
"Time Tickin" hits just right lyrically and beat-wise. It is one of those tracks that separates the real lyricists from those who benefit from an overproduced track or hide behind a cookie-cutter trap cadence. It is stripped down to a straight Boom Bap and horn sample. Spewing out metaphors, Jered goes hard about his calling (and being forgiven) on another song that bangs, "Guess Who's Bizzack." The motto "God over money" gets another boost while Jered's lyrical cadence flows naturally over the track.
"Bad and Boujee" has been a massive hit this year, but Jered and Bizzle flip its message on "Sinner Man." I usually try to stay away from the "they killed it better than the original artist" bit, especially in CHH. However, that is very true with "Sinner Man." Bizzle comes in when he says, "I never told your daughter to twerk something / Only told her that she's worth something / They hate it though / They don't want it on the radio..." Jered shows that he can get down over trap music, but he makes it clear that they are here to bring the hope of Christ. Towards the end, Jered kicks it into high gear with a rapid-fire delivery.
From girls who are lowering themselves to attract attention on social media to the Flint, Michigan water crisis, Jered hits on several things on "Better." This Missy Elliot track gets merked nicely. Insert the slowed down "Letter to AJ" and hear Jered pour his heart out to a friend who is locked up, carefully mixing empathy while briefly admonishing him to seek Christ. "My Views," another hip-hop head nodder, gives a good overview of this brother's mission, his outlook and his bars.
The Bottom Line: Go get Verseatility and indulge. There are a couple of tracks that could have been left out, and that is okay. Jered Sanders won't be slowed down until his mission is done.
Song to Download Now:
"Sinner Man" (Get the whole mixtape for free here.)
Continuous Motion | Posted March-30-2017
Taelor Gray is on a mission to release somewhere around 10 projects in 2017. He released Jacob and Judas (executive produced by his brother, Christon Gray) via PledgeMusic only, and now he has released In the Way of Me. To keep pace with a seemingly impossible number of projects, Taelor's "pen game" is set to continuous motion. Taelor Gray is one of those artists who dares to deal with issues that plague society while also daring to tackle the joy and struggle of a man who is living a life with Christ, themes found throughout In the Way of Me. AG handles the majority of production on the album, with additional tracks from Wes Pendleton, Daniel Steele and Swoope.
At first listen, "Radio (feat. Christon Gray)" could be mistaken for just another radio hit with a dope hook from Taelor and Chris, but this song is so much more. You need multiple listens as they both slip some slick bars; catch the references. "Moral Tower" is the ill banger and a retrospective on a certain part of his life. Taelor recalls being a weed smoking college student who was a bit promiscuous and fell into depression. He found himself among students who were struggling, yet gained so much knowledge.
"Comfortable" has Taelor rapping to the slowed down beat that has become a signature tempo he's used on several projects. He reminds people not to get too comfortable in this life because we are only living on borrowed time. There is so much to chew on that you will have to listen to it several times and let it digest. He goes on to give praise and honor to God, the "Most High." This track is unique because many artists in this genre tend to have someone else (usually a pop or CCM artist) singing the chorus. However, Taelor just goes in by himself, not really aiming for a hook, but taking his time and letting the song build.
The "boom bip" drum pattern (provided by Swoope) of "Me Versus Me" is a nice setup for a cypher. Taelor partners with wordsmiths Swoope, Ki'shon Furlow and Kai to address a battle that no believer can escape: the battle against your own flesh and self-will. All the artists kill it.
One of the things that I appreciate greatly about Taelor Gray is his love for Gospel music and hip-hop, the Word of God and unity, yet also studying the richness of Black History. These elements are impressively molded together on the track "Close." I get a kick out of him borrowing for the F.C. Barnes classic when he sings "I'm coming up on the rough side of the mountain... / I'm doing my best."
The Bottom Line: Taelor Gray is hip-hop! Taelor marries hip-hop with the life of a Christian so well. In the Way of Me is a complete album with only ten tracks, demonstrating that sometimes it is smarter to condense the amount of songs to have a more potent album without throwaway songs.
A Reignited Sound | Posted March-07-2017
I have often used the term "underrated" before to describe artists, but when describing Anthony Evans, the word, "undervalued" comes to mind. He creates music that mixes a little pop, soul, Gospel and CCM, and as a result I feel that he is not properly valued in the CCM and Gospel industries. Some in Gospel may feel he is too CCM for their format, and although he has been more embraced in CCM radio, some may feel that he is too soulful for their format. It may be time for these formats to start broadening their view.
Anthony has just released a masterful new album titled Back to Life. He hooked up with young producer Max Stark again, as well as the incomparable vocal producer Tim Davis, to create a musical journey throughout this album of worship. Listeners will hear Anthony taking more risks vocally, adding even higher notes than we have heard him sing on previous albums.
Ironic as it is, he has found more of a sense of purpose living in Los Angeles in middle of a culture that has very different religious views than he does. However, the authenticity of some of the people he has met has provided a boost that he needed. "Back to Life" shows a rejuvenated Anthony Evans who sings of his renewed faith and sense of who is because of hope is Christ: "I, I'm back to life / I'm feeling hope arise / Because of You / and only You Jesus." He continues to sing of how major issues that affect the everyday person have no power over God. This one is as empowering as it is hopeful.
Bethel Music's "Ever Be" gets a makeover with Anthony Evans's edgy stamp of soulful vocals and powerhouse background vocals from a noteworthy choir of singers. I love the way the beat takes the forefront of the music on the beginning of the chorus. Anthony even remakes his own song, "Incredible," which was originally written by one of his mentors, Kirk Franklin. This time around, the background vocals are fuller and layered while being sprinkled throughout the whole song. He added some heat to an already funky song.
"Everything Changes" has the retro soul feel that Bruno Mars has made popular. Turn it up, roll your window down and just vibe to it. Of course with Anthony being a Californian, he had to sing praise via a little EDM with "Home."
The Bottom Line: I know that Anthony Evans is singing across the country and has a multicultural appeal. However, I want more people to take notice of this amazing talent, a unique artist who has some of the most crisp and polished tenor vocals out there. Back to Life will definitely be a great addition to his musical repertoire and serve to inspire you to seek a stronger relationship with God.
Out of the Gate Firing | Posted February-22-2017
4 For 5 Records is Word Records' brand new hip hop imprint. Word has recognized the impact that hip hop is making on a global scale. Producer and musician Joseph Prielzony oversees the imprint, aided by his impressive resume and ear for music. The first round draft pick of the label is Steven Malcolm. He hit the ground running first as part of the Winter Jam tour and now with his self-titled album. Hard hitting beats, clean flow, trap music and an impressive list of guests help to boost this already promising artist.
Lead single "Hot Boy" is definitely a banger with the trap beat and the signature staccato-styled flow that frequently goes with a song of this nature. Some may find this song a little braggadocious and may misunderstand Steven, but paired with songs like "Never Let You Go (feat. Bianca)," it's clear that there is no way that he should be judged by one song.
One thing you will not find is an album full of double entendres and really heavy lyrics. However, you will find that relatable topics, songs to turn up to and fun tracks are all there. Head nodding is a must on "Feel Me," and his flow is impressive as Steven wonders if people will understand his message of hope. The boom bip is strong on "Six Four," while listeners might notice that Steven falls into the Andy Mineo flow on this one and a few others. This should subside as he grows and continues to carve his own niche.
Things turn up with the dancehall reggae-tinged "Fire (featuring Beam)." "Party in the Hills (feat. Andy Mineo and Hollyn)" is the put your tops down pre-summer jam with a high energy beat accented by the synths and guitars weaving in and out. Houston rapper Pyrexx helps to get things popping on "Leh Get It" to complete an unexpected but dope collaboration. Steven Malcom pays homage to his strong affection for "Cereal," which should be a fun song to chuckle about.
Steven gets candid and expresses his regret for premarital sex on "The Struggle," even speaking on the struggle to live a pure life. Now, he is dead set on living pure until marriage. I would be remiss if I did not mention the job that Scootie does with his falsetto-laced hook. This brother kills it.
The Bottom Line: This is a strong debut for Steven Malcolm, and he will continue to grow artistically and spiritually. He has a lot of music to ride to and songs that expose his humanity. This is only the beginning for this promising artist.
A Debut to Chew On | Posted December-16-2016
Davis Absolute has signed with the underrated XIST Records, news that garnered some buzz. Unfortunately, a division of sorts often seems to happen in hip hop where there are fans who only want their preferred style. This brother has something different about him. He is definitely not a trap artist, but he has a gritty type of flow with deep lyrics. Davis Absolute addresses his truth in his unique style with the EP Absolutes.
Take "Last Supper," for instance. The backdrop is a vintage boom beat, which is just enough for him to explain the urgent need to witness and "break bread" with unbelievers in what seems like the last days. The eerie sound effects are topped with a rapid flow that comes out of nowhere. At times it is hard to understand him, but his flow will become more crisp as he continues to perfect his craft.
On "My Life," layers are peeled back, exposing a vulnerable Davis who wrestled with his share of inner demons during his life before his salvation experience with Christ. The memories are combined with passionate recollection of what God did while thankfulness and worship tops off what he explains as his "truth." This is not the run of the mill "turn up" album where you get a few JPM's (Jesus per minute). I love a good song to turn up to, but I also appreciate and vibe with albums where the artist digs deep lyrically, where we listeners have to listen a few times to pull back the layers.
"AOTV" has Davis explaining the perils of enduring a long period of being in the "valley," even to the point where even the "highs are so low." Davis enlists the help of co-laborers Brother 3, Nobigdyl, Lawren and Mogli the Iceberg to body the cypher "The Body." Energy and passion are exhibited by each emcee.
The Bottom Line: As stated before, the flow sometimes gets so abstract that it runs away from the beat, but David Absolutes' Absolutes shows promise and leaves a lot of material for us to chew on and study. Get ready to listen with intent and have your decoding skills sharpened.
Passion and Skill | Posted November-29-2016
Bizzle has been one of the most consistent artists in CHH in the last 5 years. Many of us were introduced to him by way of his aggressive raps geared at Jay-Z, which had him immediately drawing fire. He has challenged the black community while also defending them when he feels like injustice has reared its ugly head. No one can deny his flow, his passion for Christ and his desire to see God's name honored and respected. He gained the respect of very noted producer Boi-1-Da and they have collaborated on several albums, including the brand-new Crosses & Crowns. The Cratez and C-Life handle the core of the production with beats by Marv4MoBeats, The Dilemma, Macniff, Curtiss King and Snaz.
Bizzle features his brothers from his God Over Money Squad, including Sevin, Datin, Bumps Inf and Selah the Corner. They linked up on the "God Over Money Cypher," which is chock-full of nice punch lines with the heat provided by Boi-1-Da. Bizzle fans know he is pretty raw with what he says, but you will do a double take on his intense verse on this cypher.
On "We Here Now," he goes at folks who want Christians to stay quiet and even folks who believe Christianity is a "white man's religion." Bizzle is not playing around. Against the backdrop of a banging slowed-up beat, Bizzle reminds ladies they are "Royalty" and not to settle.
Sometimes he puts some very personal and private conversations into his songs for all to hear his struggles, as is the case on "Work It Out." This is a letter to his wife asking her to work with him to fix things in their marriage that are in disarray. This song may be an encouragement to other Christians not to put up a facade and to truly address issues in their marriage. He then picks things up and sings to her via "Forever Love (After the Storm Interlude)."
Dove Award Winner (and one of my favorite singers) Jonathan McReynolds lends his smooth vocals to "Knock Off Love." Bizzle relentlessly goes into territory that others will not. He and Jonathan explain that God's love is not flighty, that it is basically the antithesis of what much of society glorifies.
In a collaboration that proves the love between the Reach Records and God Over Money camps, KB and Bizzle join forces and give us some nice bars on "All I Know." Bizzle and H.U.R.T. get gritty while Bizzle snaps over the vintage Dr Dre-styled beat by Marv4MoBeats on "Hands On the Air."
The Bottom Line: Some may think Bizzle is an acquired taste because he is so bold about his faith, honest about issues and doesn't back down. However, he is someone whose voice is needed and who I have tremendous respect for. To top it all off, the dude has skills. Cross and Crosses does not disappoint.
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