Reviews (41)

TFK Truly Rocks!
This is my first review, and I have over 200 cds, so that shows you how much I have enjoyed this band. I didn't even know that TFK was a christian band before I fell in love with them. I am not a hardcore christian or anything, but i do notice it in their creative lyrics, and I like it. I been listening to them nonstop since I got their CD. I've never heard their first CD but will probably look into it after reading the reviews on it. I noticed a couple people said that this puts the new POD cd to shame and I have to say that I agree to this. This CD is impressive both musically and lyrically, which is hard for a band to accomplish.

Favorite songs: Rawkfist (their Single), Faith, Love, and Happiness, Phenomenon, This Is A Call....ah, they're all growing on me, I honestly love them all.

There's not many CDs from start to finish, but this is one of them! I'm listening to them even as I type this review. I'm really looking forward to future music from TFK.

"It's TFK, we rock the party, and keep the party jumpin' in an old school way!"

Far from Original
TFK-what happened? To everyone raving about how original and diverse this album is..I question how much creative music you have been exposed to. As a fan of Christian music, I loved Set It Off, and still do. Even with the cheesy ebonic postering in some of the lyrics, it was an enjoyable album with many memorable moments. Seeing two of Krutch's shows made me even more excited to hear there new album. But turns out this is the most average CD I've heard in a while from a band who is capable of SO much more. I've listened to the CD several times and off the top of my head I can't even think of what some songs sound like-thats how mundane it is. There are some pretty good songs on here and its very easy to listen to-but I personally want more creativity and chances taken. I also think its unwise for Krutch to totally take out its rap element (except on one song--which is my favorite part of the cd). Even if critics say rap-rock is played out, Krutch had a good rap voice and it helped create intensity on the songs. So enough ranting, I understand why people like this CD but please do not call it creative or interesting..and then maybe TFK won't get complacent with their mediocre sound

Samples
I haven't bought this CD yet but I do intend to purchase it in the near future. I have the full version of Rawkfist on one of my mix CDs and I love it! But I listened to the samples here at Amazon and they all sound the same and are kind of blah. I probably should have rated because I don't actually have the CD like I said.

No Phenomenon... Just Hype
If it wasn't for the $8 price tag I wouldn't have bought this cd because it's not crap, but it doesn't reach the highs that Set It Off did and I'm no longer a youngin with the capacity to enjoy some of the more bland tracks.

I love GOOD rap and the first cd had some of that. There's rap on here, but no where near enough good stuff. Of course, musically, this cd is much improved though I'm not saying Set It Off was really lacking. Of course, the presence of good turntables would've helped their latest.

A better sound this time round!
1. Phenomenon 10/10
2. Step to Me 10/10
3. Last Words 9/10
4. This Is a Call 8/10
5. Rawkfist 10/10 BEST SONG ON THIS CD!!
6. Faith, Love and Happiness 9/10
7. I Climb 9/10 a descent song
8. Quicken 8/10
9. New Design 9/10 boy you could say a mouth full w/o listening to the song! The Band has a totally new sound and a new "design" so to speak.
10. Bounce 9/10 a good single
11. Ordinary 8/10
12. Break the Silence 9/10
Overall an awesome cd and its an awesome improvement from Set it off. So if you like kicking guiters and drums get TFK TODAY!! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

sux ass
this cd sux ass, christian rap is a complete waste just like christian rock. Its not cool its not hardcore its weak.So stop pretending that christian rap is so hardcore and get a life
-peace

THE REAL ENCORE
While Eminem's newest album "ENCORE" was a huge disappointment, KJ-52 manages to completely surpass his secular counterpart in EVERY way. It's wonderful to FINALLY hear a Christian hip-hop album that doesn't end up CORNY.

I'm a HUGE fan of artists like Immortal Technique, Kanye West, Common Sense, Nas, Blackstar, Dead Prez, Jin, and KRS-One. They're all DEFINITELY talented, but sometimes it feels nice to listen to CLEAN, Christ influenced hip-hop.

KJ-52 EVOLVES greatly from his past albums by mixing a HUGE variety of Hip-Hop styles, from oldschool to Rap/Rock Collabos. He's a wonderful performer LIVE, but i've NEVER been able to sit through one of his albums UNTIL NOW.

"FIVE TWEEZY" 5/5
if you enjoyed the goofy song "KJ FIVE TWO" on his last album, you'll LOVE this. It's alot better, with an extremely catchy hook!

"ARE YOU REAL?" 4/5
Reminds me of a Linkin Park song. Great intensity and features Micah from Kutless!

"ROCK WITH IT" 3/5
If you're a fan of OLDSCHOOL Hip-Hop, you'll absolutely adore this song.

"GOD" 4/5
The lyrics and verses are PERFECT. What kills the song is the awkward Chorus by Rebecca St. James. It jus' doesn't seem to fit right. The beat is reminiscent of "THE BOY IS MINE" by Brandy and Monica.

"BEHIND THE MUZIK" 3/5
Has a westcoast feel. Sounds like Nate Dog could've done the hook!

"THANK YOU" 3/5
This is the heartfelt "gitty" track you'd expect on ANY Hip-Hop CD. It's nice, but not unique.

"JESUS" 2/5
Another oldschool style song. Not as good as "ROCK WITH IT" tho'.

"RIGHT HERE" 5/5
This song grew on me pretty easily. Great message, and a WONDERFUL mix of Jeremy Camp's original version!

"VIDEO GAMES" 4/5
Not the greatest beat, but it's such a fun song. KJ will probably never top the oldschool masterpiece "47 EMCEES," but it's always fun listening to him use pop culture references to the "CARTOON NETWORK" and "47 POP STARS."

"PLAIN WHITE RAPPER" 2/5
Another mediocre song that never really had my interest. Funny title tho'.

"THINGS I LIKE" 3/5
i didn't like this song at first, until i really understood the message. Typical Chorus, with highly formulated verses.

"LIFE AFTER DEATH" 5/5
intense song. Serious tone with an eye opening message.

"NEVER LOOK AWAY" 4/5
A nice listen. Brynn Sanchez's voice is SoOoOoOthing. =)

"FOR THE LADIES" 2/5
Hate the beat and chorus, but it's still a great message for ladies. But i'd recommend "PRINCES AND FROGS" by Superchic[k] to girls i meet.

"I CAN CALL ON YOU" 4/5
if you listen carefully to KJ's verses, you can feel the passion in his flow. This is definitely a heartfelt song.

"CRY NO MORE" 5/5
An important song for anyone who's ever been molested or raped. A song that can heal and mend broken hearts.

"ONE" 4/5
This is a song MEANT to be heard LIVE. What makes this song great is the END. KJ preaches an incredible message.

"HE IS ALL" 4/5
A great closer to an already well-crafted album.

ALBUM RATING: 5/5
So far, this is the best Hip-Hop album i've heard this year. Every true hip-hop fan needs this album in their collection. And if you minister to youth who listen to alot of rap garbage like 50 Cent, Chingy, and Nelly... BUY THEM THIS ALBUM. "The Message is in the Music."

KJ-52 Simply The Best Representin'
Wow...what can I say. I become a fan of KJ after album one. He is a phenomenal story teller which is what makes is his witnessing so powerful. Clever lyrics and beats to bounce to make every single track he does playable again and again.

He is able to take complexity of life and weave stories with the simplicity of faith and salvation in ways that just ministers to the heart but delivers a good time all at that the same time.

What really comes across is the relationship he has with Jesus. It clearly translates well. This young man is speaking from his relationship with God. He is very much in touch with heart for reaching the lost and serving his Lord.

KJ, you go son...you inspire me. Thank you for delivering such quality music for everyone.

My God continue to bless you and may also experience the financial (yes...I said money...money is not evil and christians should have plenty of too!) success from your projects that you so deserve. Just don't forget to tithe! :-)

This is recommend 4 Em fans or Non-Em fans
I definitely recommend this if they want the real Christian side of the Eminem not the one that's talks real wild and dirty which ya'll mean. I think he's such a genius and such a spirit-filled Christian with a lot of sense of being the best Gospel rapper out there. You gotta check him out man! 'Cuz he representing Christ than Em himself. Everybody should put down Eminem 4 a minute and into KJ-52. 'Cuz KJ-52 would change your spirit. I luv u Pastor KJ-52, u're da man. Keep up the good spirit and may God lead u. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It can't be said enough that DC Talk is one of the most relevant and critical forces of change in the history of Contemporary Christian Music. They brought the sounds and words of the streets into the consciousness of mainstream Christianity. And musically, they've done it in the most pleasing manner. This hits package is but a mere glimpse of the brilliance Toby McKeehan, Michael Tait, and Kevin Smith have displayed in so many styles throughout their 10-year career in DC Talk. There are beautiful ballads of forgiveness ("Between You and Me"), riveting rockers of conviction ("Jesus Freak"), and the quiet, stark realities of being role models ("What If I Stumble?"). New cuts "Say the Words (Now)" and "Chance" play up the sweet melodies these guys know so well. Older fans will enjoy the inclusion of "Luv Is a Verb" and "Socially Acceptable." As long as the group keeps its finger on the pulse of the mainstream and its heart focused on the Almighty, another decade of hits is a good bet. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (76)

A MUST for any serious Christian music collection
DC Talk is back again with a collection of their best work over their last three albums, encompassing 11 years of evolution into the most dynamic and talented Christian group today. This album is a must for any serious Christian music collection, but because of the quality of the songs, would be a great buy for someone who wants to know what Christian music is all about. The CD includes two remixes, the first of which is a mainstream-ready dance mix version of "Say the Words," and two new songs: "Chance" and "SugarCoat It," which continue with DC Talk's 'pull no punches' theme of upfront, honest commentary on life. Also included on the album is "Jesus Freak", one of the best Christian songs ever written, and "Between You and Me", which had success in the mainstream market. The album is a unique blend of rock 'n roll and pop, with a little soul, harmony, and hip-hop mixed in. From the heavy rock of "Supernatural" to the heart-felt ballads of "What if I Stumble?", "I Wish We'd All Been Ready", and "My Will," this album contains a wide range of music that shows why DC Talk has been so successful: diversity. DC Talk refuses to shy away from social issues, such as racism, with pop hits like "Colored People," and DC Talk refuses to shy away from God with pop ballads like "In the Light" and "Consume Me." All in all, this album contains 17 songs, which are certain to give younger Christian music fans a taste and appreciation for the older music of DC Talk, and music fans in general a chance to see what Christian music is all about.

What Can I Say: dc Talk? Hits album? Its awsome!!!
This is dc Talk at its best (all hits CDs are). This CD includes the hits like "What If I Stumble","Supernatural", "My Will", "Jesus Freak", "Consume Me", "Jesus Is Just Alright", ect. It also includes 2 remixes of old songs from the Free At Last record: "Say The Words (Now)" is and awsome remix of the original song. The original has hardly any music in it (it is mostly just drums and the electric guitar), but the remix has alot more music that express the message of the song; and the remix of "Hardway" (I can't realy tell why it is is called a remix, as it sounds JUST like the original, but it is a bit shorter than the original). The CD also includes two brand new songs, "Chance" and "SugarCoat It". "Chance" is a nice Ballad that tells how every "Chance" we get to do somthing nice for someone, we should use; "SugarCoat It" Is a kinda techno/rock/pop/rap song...????!!!???? i guess it is dc Talks whole style sumed up in one song...:) The only bad things about this CD is that it dosn't include "Since I Met You" and "My Friend (So Long)", Two AWSOME hits from the Supernatural record and that it has no song/s from the CDs Nu Thang and DC Talk. Other than that, this is a Great CD that every Christian music fan NEEDS to own...buy it...today...You won't regret it.

These are the words I want to hear!
WOW!! WOW!! WOW!! All I can say is WOW. This album is amazing, and so is DC Talk. DC Talk is my favorite "singing and dancing" group.

This album has a perfect collection of songs.

I like the version of Say The Words on this album better than the original. I REALLY LOVE the programming. Not only is it my favorite DC Talk song, it's also one of my favorite songs of all time.

By the way, I also thought I might add that DC Talk made rap music WAY better. I think they do great rapping.

Anyway this is an AWESOME album and if you like DC Talk at all you MUST buy this album. Enjoy it!

Let me say real quick to Toby Mac, Michael Tait and Kevin Max that they did an AWESOME job on this!

dc Talk paved the way for Third Day, Switchfoot and others
Terrific overview of one of the most important (if not the most important) contemporary Christian group in history. Few trios, even in the secular world, are as diverse and daring as dc Talk has been to date. The gritty pieces like "Jesus Freak" from their "Jesus Freak" disc nearly 10 years ago sound as fresh today as when they were first committed to studio tape.dc's take on songwriter/artist/columnist Charlie Peacock's "In The Light" is the greatest version of that song ever, and it's one of dc Talk's top five tracks, easily. Unfortunately, only "Consume Me" and "Supernatural" are extracted from 1998's wonderful "Supernatural" LP. Still, it's hard to beat the songs that are here, even though the trio's first two discs (dc Talk, Nu Thang) aren't represented here. (Toby said in a recent CCM magazine article he wished they had waited and had "Free At Last," their third LP, be their first.)
Shame on the reviewer below who is using explicit words to describe a Christian band he supposedly liked at one time. Talk about tacky, with a capital "T." Wash your mouth, "my friend."

Sell outs
I gave this album 1 star because there are virtually no songs on it from their first two. They want to forget that they started out as a rap group with two background vocalists and not a pop rock group. Even if it not as cool anymore, they must realize that the self titled tape started them off and Nu thang got them going. These are the reason that they are who they are even if they didn't get on the Billboard charts with them. Dc talk just changes with whatever is cool anyway so f#@! em. FU#! em in their stupid @!#es. They are the ones that are the ba@! lickers! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Jesus Freak, like the 1970s phrase that it's culled from, is an oddity. Who could have ever imagined such a wonderful blend of grunge rock, rap, melodic pop, and funk? "So Help Me God" sets the tone with a wicked guitar riff that draws boundaries for the trio's magic harmonies. "What If I Stumble?" and the vastly underrated "Between You and Me" allow Michael Tait to showcase his silky smooth vocals, while "Jesus Freak" and "Mind's Eye" prove the band can change speeds and rock as hard as anyone. For good measure, they even improve upon Charlie Peacock's "In the Light." One of the best Christian CDs of the '90s. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (228)

One of the TOP TEN CD's of the Nineties
When I first picked up this CD six years ago, I had heard nothing of the rumblings of controversy concerning it in the Christian music industry. In fact, I was expecting Jesus Freak to pick up right where Free at Last left off.

Uh, wrong. I could not believe my ears. In hindsight, this CD was truly revolutionary and vastly ahead of its time. Christian or not, this is one CD that needs to be in your collection if for its musical merit alone. However, that said, it is the trio's ability to meld the music with equally mind-blowing lyrics, that make this CD an essential must-have. Where as many Christian-oriented bands shy away from putting the word, "Jesus", in their lyrics, instead substituting "Love", etc. for easier radio play, -- you won't find that here. Make no mistake this CD is as bold and true in its lyrics as it is in its music. One of my favorite examples of this is the lesser mentioned "hidden" track that comes a couple of minutes after "Mind's Eye." That one gives me chills no matter how many times I hear it.

Buy Jesus Freak and listen. Then tune in to secular radio and listen to bands like P.O.D., Linkin Park, and even to a lesser extent, Limp Bizkit. Media has dubbed the sound as NuMetal - a metal/rap hybrid. Funny, I heard NuMetal about six years ago.

Awesome cd
This is an awesome cd.The cd starts out with an incredible guitar riff,followed by the song "So Help Me God".A great start to the cd."So Help Me God","Colored People","Day by Day",and the awesome grunge tinged title track "Jesus Freak"are my favorites.They are all good. For all you people who were expecting somthing like Jars of Clay,prepare to be blown away!Also,to all you idiots who called dc talk's music blasphemous or ungodly,you are mentally unstable.You need to buy this cd and read the lyrics,if that doesn't change your mind nothing will.The sound has nothing to do with the integrity of the song,it's the words and heart behind the song that count,remember that.

Not Your Average Christian Album
I don't listen to Christian music. The majority of it is horrid and textbook. But I recieved this album as a gift several years ago and it's one of the best in my vast collection. Christian or not, alot of rock fans will love this one. They sound alot like Nirvana, but with Christian lyrics. And it's not sappy, corny stuff like you'd think. I know alot of people won't listen to this review and will just pass this over since it's a Christian album, but you'll really be missing out. "Jesus Freak" was one of the best albums to come out of the 90's. And if you decide to pick this one up and enjoy it, also check out their live album, "Welcome to the Freak Show". They're really great live.

Not for the Faint Heart (Most Diverse Album Ever)
No band has ever tried before or since to combine
so very many different styles of music all into
one explosion of music talent and genius:

R&B vocals
with Rap vocals
with Rock Guitar and Drums
with Funk Bass and Drums

Most original Album of all time -Christian and NonChristian
If you are tired of mainstream rap/rock or copycats who play the same thing over and over, and are looking for something with a lot of edge and originality, this is the album for you. DC talk single handedly created a whole genre of music in this album back in 95 that has since been copied a thousand times over by mainstream secular bands.

Their unique blend of R&B vocals with rhythm and rap all fused together with driving electric guitars is unparralleled in the entire music world.

Their lyrics are a whole other story. They tapped into loads of raw emotion, when they analyzed and brought into light all the fears and self doubt that everyone goes through. Especially in high school. Captivating an entire generation of frustrated, scared, timid boys and girls and motivating them into on fire Christians totally sold out for Jesus. If you have heard the album and are not a Christian, all you can do is sit back and wonder in amazement. Who is this Jesus, really? Why not try then and find out who he says that he is in his written word in the Gospels in the Bible? God is standing at the door of your heart and knocking. If you will let him in, he will totally
change your life for better than you could ever imagine. His blessings are so rich: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Gentleness, and Kindness. And don't be satisfied with just a little of these, he's got way more of them than you know. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

How did DC Talk follow up their epic Jesus Freak? Very carefully, if Supernatural is any indication. Where Jesus Freak broke through musical barriers in a genre known for playing it safe, Supernatural builds on the band's momentum with a familiar blend of power pop, beautiful ballads, and power-chord rockers. The opening "It's Killing Me" lays down a riveting foundation, while Toby McKeehan has never sounded more like Seal than on the soft ballads "Consume Me" and "Godsend." But McKeehan (who coproduces) also turns it around by belting out the R&B-tinged "Wanna Be Loved." Not to be outdone, Michael Tait, Kevin Max, and McKeehan team up wonderfully on the radio-ready "Into Jesus." Once again, producer Mark Heimermann blends fascinating vocal arrangements into DC Talk's magical wall of sound. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (360)

Response to "A music fan from Fort Smith, Arkansas"
What can I say? AWESOME! I've been obsessed with DCT for as long as I've been obsessed with music. I love this music! This is my favorite cd of theirs. Jesus Freak is a close second.

And, in response to "A music fan from Fort Smith, Arkansas United States," I just listened to Consume Me, and I understand that you might think that they said "consumed with...satan". But, I'm quite sure that Tait, after "consumed with"...sings "joy"; and Kevin, after "consumed with"...sings "you". It strangely makes a combination that coincidentally sounded kind of like that.

To people who are wondering whether to buy this cd, you might as well just go do it. Every song is wonderful! And, one thing that's cool about dc Talk is that their lyrics on every song are worshipful and meaningful. The title track, one of my favorite songs, starts a little spooky but turns into a hardcore song about God. "My friend (so long)" is a great song warning against drifting away from Jesus. "Dive and "Fearless" are awesome. "Red Letters" has really great lyrics. "Wanna Be Loved" is a funny R&B song.

This CD rocks!

This Belongs in any Album Collection!
I bought this album with high expectations. After listening to the album, I knew the album met my expectations perfectly. This is soul-settling music at its best! dc Talk has produced the perfect follow-up to Jesus Freaks. Toby McKeehan, Kevin Max, and Michael Tait are the three big names in all contemporary Christian music in my opinion. The songs on this album include:

1. Supernatural Intro - a three-word song that sets the stage for the real songs

2. It's Killin' Me

3. Dive - One of my personal favorites, contains an awesome message.

4. You Consume Me

5. My Friend (So Long) - Another personal favorite

6. Fearless

7. Godsent

8. Wanna Be Loved

9. Truth

10. Since I Met You

11. Into Jesus

12. Supernatural - The main song on the album, an awesome song that contains a message about supernatural events.

13. Red Letters

14. There is a Treason at Sea

Although I have pointed out some of my favorites, I actually love all the songs. There actually is not a song that is better than or worse than another. This album is definitely worth your money, and I can reccomend this CD wholeheartedly. I can't wait to buy every single album from dc Talk!

I love this CD.....my favorite by DC Talk
Man, what a great CD. After the smash hit, Jesus Freak, which was also amazing, they came back with Supernatural, and blew me away! I have found the majority of Christian music fans to like Jesus Freak more, but I find this CD even better. The variety of songs is tremendous and the beats are great. This is their best work in my opinion.

ATTENTION "Consume Me" listeners!!!
This CD is the perfect spinoff to an album like "Jesus Freak". Not only is it as creative and original, this CD is more in-depth and the songs speak more about their faith as oppose to encouragement of others' faith. The songs "Red Letters" and "Into Jesus" are highlights on the CD for their deep subject matter and poetic flow.

My personal favorite is "Consume Me" and was a little surprised to hear that there were people who reviewed this who thought the word satan had been said. This song is deep talking about the bliss and Heavenly presence of God. So, of course I went to listen for the part mentioned and I can certainly see where the mistake was made. But a more thorough listen and you will hear Michael say "I am consumed...I'm consumed with you..." While he's holding this note out Kevin, very quietly, cuts in with "Say(or so) there's no..." Then follows with "There's no other way I can fly..." Again I can understand the error but the thought of dc talk being consumed by the devil is laughable.

For those who have never heard of dc talk I recommend this and the CD "Jesus Freak".

Amazing
Its kind of funny, about five years ago, I got this CD just for the title song "Supernatural". I loved that song but its the only song that I listened to. Recently, I found the CD in one of my desk drawers. I decided to listen to it, and I loved every single song, mostly "Fearless", "Consume Me", "Its Killing Me", and "Red Letters".

I can honestly say it is one of the best albums I own. Not one bad song on it. The great thing is it's variety. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

This CD deserves a spot in your CD collection!
This CD is well worth listening to. In fact I am listening to it right now. When I first got it, it was kept in my Disc Man for hours! I always keep it with me. Dear Slim pt. 2 is awesome! It really puts the whole role model thing into place. I mean, Eminem has all this fame and he is causing kids to think about killing themselves! He is a role model for hundreds of kids and he doesn't give a care. KJ is a perfect alternative for kids who listen to Em. I'm Guilty puts what Jesus did for us in perfect picture. It takes place in a courthouse. KJ is on trial for killing Jesus. He like realizes that it was our sin that killed Jesus. Jesus died for us. You can't kill God. Jesus said that it was finished and GAVE UP his soul. at the end of the song it says he is found guilty but the charges were dropped. Isn't that so true? God did do that for us!

Kinda strange, but it's still "pronounced" real good
Look, this guy is the PERFECT substitute for the controversial rapper "eminem", considering he sounds pretty much the same. But that's not what I have to say about this cd. There's so much comedy (about a third of the cd is done for jokes), and he doesn't seem to be as serious as other rappers...however, "dear slim pt.2", "pick yourself up", "don't go", "#1 Fan", and "I'm guilty" are awesome lyrically---powerful, life-changing, and just good lyrics. Those songs are also awesome musically, but those aren't the only songs that are cool. KJ also sings some, which is awesome. But here are some things I couldn't get over: on most of the choruses, he (or a guest singer or rapper) seems to be singing or rapping the same thing over and over, which is repetive and annoying. Another thing is that he seems to be a such a good rapper, singer, and song writer, but that talent seems to be wasted by the way he produces some songs. This cd also has far too much talking during, before, and after the songs. But that's all I have against this disc---everything else is great. You can also relate to some of the stuff he's talking about when he's serious or when he's goofing around."DEAR SLIM PT.2" is pretty much a "sequal" of the first one he did in his last album "collaborations", but the original's still a little better. Well, anyway, that's all I've got to say...p-e-a-c-e

Star-Studded Bummer
I hate to diss a cd, especially one by an artist I use to really like, but this is pathetic. I'm sure this cd has a lot of teeny-bop pop appeal, but give me a break, I like rap/hip-hop, and most of this cd is straight trash.

KJ should've stayed away from copying Eminem anymore. "Dear Slim" was a pretty good song, not neccessarily my favorite though. But he should've never made "Number One Fan", a badly bitten song in the same vein of Eminem's "Stan". KJ can feel free to make humor out of his connections with Em, but he shouldn't steal the plot/theme of one of his songs and switch it around a little and make it less cool. If KJ had been the originator I'd've been all ears and would've been like "Dang, KJ's better at this stuff than I thought".

KJ has the skill to be great. Check out "Keep it Movin (feat. Knowdaverbs)" or "It's the S.O.I." on 7th Avenue, "World Wide" from his Sons of Intellect Days, heck, just about anything from those cd's. "5th Element" on "Collaborations" is a very good song, done from the perspective of the "5 elements of hip hop". He's not Eminem and doesn't have to act like him to have skill.

He's also an annointed minister. There's no reason for this cd to have been this bad.

Who is the 47th pop star...?!
We love this CD, but on the song "47 Pop Stars" we can only count 46! Who can help?

Sorry KJ
Yall need ta stop lying when you write your reviews 'cause then I go out and buy a cd like this that is totally horrible. As a christian and a witness for Christ, KJ is tight and I really respect what he is doing. But as a musician, These songs are poorly written and even more poorly produced. Listening to the lyrics I realized that KJ really isn't saying anything. And when he is saying something, it is so corny and cheesey that even my 4th grade sunday school teacher would hate on it. Can we give zero stars? ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Way Above the Heads of the Masses
There are many rap artists out there. There are many stylesof rap music from Christian to hard core secular. However, in all my years since the late 80's of listening to rap music, few artists compare to GRITS. GRITS newest project "The art of translation" is the best Christian hip hop release since 2000.
Christian hip hop, and hip hop in general has been assuaulted by a steady berage of no talent, gimmick and style stealing artists.
The same way Bubba Spark stole the patterns of Eminem.

Grits is a trend setter, the songs on this album are very Good.
Tennessee is a Dirty South style song, which his higly unusual for GRITS. The first song on the album "Here we Go" and "Give me Room" are all great hits. This Album does frustrate me becuae it does have on Jennifer Knapp, that song doesn't go with the flow of the Album.

Over all this CD is a good buy. I have three of their CD's and this is the best one to date. I hope this album raises the bar, again for Christian Hip Hop and I hope it gets the press it deserves. Many Christian artists blow secular artists away. So if you want to check out Christian hip hop on the web.

and definetly by this album.

You don't want none........
YOU GOTTA GET THIS RECORD! If you's a rap fan, then you gotta get this album. This is some new stuff you ain't heard before. Almost every track is blazing...not all of them but a lot of them. Grits has got their own style and have been growing over the years. Bonafide and Coffee are great emcees and can dominate radio stations if you check em out. The only people they kinda sound like are Outkast but Grits come with some real lyrics that make you think.

I personally love their first single "Here we go," it's so catchy and should be played in between Eminem and P.Diddy on the radio. "Ooh ahh" is another amazing track which features TobyMac(from DCTalk), but don't hold that against them.... cause this song is hot. Another personal favorite is "believe" with Jennifer Knapp, I don't know about this other dude reviewing but that's probably the best song on the whole album. Jennifer just sings the hook but it's so smooth, she sounds a little like Shakira on this.....

If you buy one rap album this year it's gotta be this one, it'll not only make you break your neck, but it'll do it while changing your life, if you listen to the lyrics too...

...

Uhhh
"Here We Go". I love this album, well, most of it. Grits does a 360 on every album and obviously this one's no different. I first heard Grits' on their song "Cataclysmic Circles" and knew these dudes were tight. That was from their first release, "Mental Releases". That song was/still is very cool and was very laid back. The flows sped up on pretty much every song on this cd. Grits really gave me a pleasant surprise on this cd except for the lackluster, mainstream beats that plague the second half of the cd (except for the Pettidee-produced "Lovechild").

Now, to respond to the person who said that "Bubba Spark" stole Eminem's style. Well, actually Bubba Sparxxx didn't. If you've ever listened to his songs he's not some emotional payload. His flow and attitude are very different from Eminem's, not to mention his subject matter. Bubba is much less personal and goes for punchlines mostly and cool moments. Listen to any of Em's songs and then listen to Bubba's "Ugly" and you'll see.

Anyways, God bless.

keeps rollin
I've seen Grits in concert and they were awesome!!!! Their cd lives up to its standard and keeps you wanting more. I believe they did a great job and stuff. Its great cos they're singing Christain lyrics but and actually sound good. They sound like something that would be played on BEE97. ya know? but anyways Im giving them 5 stars!

Wow!!! The best christian rap/hip hop evea!!!
I went to Amazon one day a few months ago and was searching up Christian rap/hip hop, when I came upon Grits. Clicking on Art of Translation, and playing the short sample of 'Here we Go', I was IMMEDIATLY attracted to this CD. I had listened to KJ before, and now I have made a smooth transistion to other rappers (although KJ-52 is still good!!!). Art of Translation offers 3 big hits in my opinions. Here We Go, Ooh Aah, and Seriously will all rock you! Besides the smooth hooks ans beatz, you get a very good message from the various Interludes and from the songs themselves. I learned alot from this. Recommended for all, **** out of ***** stars (b/c of some borin' songs). ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Buy this. No, listen to me. BUY THIS
The last street preacha is the best thing to happen to Christian Music since they stopped singing church music in latin. Seriously, this CD can compete with Eminem, DMX, etc etc etc. T-bone brings "gangsta" style to Christian music which is a big draw for many people...i know it was for me. Most Christian stuff today is pretty light, and I've been looking for darker Christian for a long time. when I heard of T-BOne I grabbed it as quick as I could, and it hasn't been out of my CD player once. Ok, for the critic stuff (after all, it can't be perfect, right?). There is one or two tracks that I normally skip over, like "father Figure". But the rest I can't get enough of. Seriously, I've listened to "get ya hands up" on my MP3 player 59 times (it's got a counter on it), with "street life", "the last street preacha" and "my dream" close behind. trust me: this album is awesome.

Finally!!
T-Bone sounds like a real rap CD. I mean no offense, I am a Christian and The Lord bless all you rappers for Jesus out there...but you gotta have lived it I think and even then, you have to have some talent. T-Bone has both! I am a white guy who loves rap, I threw a lot of rap away when I got saved 8 years ago, so I have a vacuume for good rap, but the lyrics have to be edifying. T-Bone fills the void! Hard core sound, without all the cursing and all the sex talk. He proves that you CAN produce HIGH Quality Christian rap without lowering yourself to the gutter. Buy this CD and virtually every song is a winner. Well, almost every song.. what I want to know is when is the NEXT T-Bone coming out!!???

Shame on you all for convincing me to buy this
Overrated, just bordering upon terrible.

Shame on you all for convincing me to buy this
Okay, three years after this album came out I am trying to figure out why it got such good ratings. I first heard T-Bone on KRS One's Spiritual Minded, and he sounded pretty intelligent. After reading all these reviews it was a no-brainer to buy it off Amazon. On it's way would be my first gospel album purchace. WHOOPS!
Wow, how overrated is this. To think it was nominated for a grammy. You call this Christian hip-hop? This sounded to me like commercial-typical rap only without the expletives. I purchased this hoping this would uplift and move me in some way. If this is one of gospel rap's best albums, I will not purchase another. Sure he has a decent flow and can get insanely fast at times, but it is not used effectively. He spends so much time talking about the killers, drug dealers, and pimps in his hood, but doesn't ever offer how shallow that can be.
Plus, T-Bone doesn't really explain his faith or how we can practice ours and believe in ourselves. He usually just name drops God, or the lord, or the creator in the hooks and such maybe just so he can call this gospel. "Last Street Preacha" sounds way to familiar to mainstream rap crap with too many references to empty thug life and use of the weird voices that Snoop, Warren G, and Kurupt use in their so-called music. "Father Figure" was pretty good but I've heard much better deeper hip-hop.
I am an old school and underground hip-hop fanatic and that helped lead me to this purchase. Oh yeah, it's nice that he talks about killing his demons, but even taking a razor blade to one's neck even figuratively does not inspire me at all. Look to Blackalicious, Talib Kweli, or even Common or the Roots for way more uplifing modern hip-hop, not this phony. Sorry T-Bone you need to look to better sources from the past in hip-hop for inspiration in your music, or even your life. Ghetto life may be or may have been hard for you, if you even lived that way, but if you are doing gospel you gotta offer more solutions and describe the emptiness and chance of falire for those who simply just live the street life and don't even think to better themselves.
KRS-One's gospel album wasn't perfect or even his best, but it is way better than this overrhyped, overemphasized mediocrity.

Phenomenal talent spewing God's Truth and Love!
Truly God saves the best for himself! I cannot think of any rapper past or present, secular or gospel, who is in the same stratosphere as T-Bone. On "The Last Street Preacha" T-Bone is at his peak. Chase (the album's producer) is top notch as well, and I love the fact that he raps in English, Spanish, and Spanglish!

More importantly, he boldly proclaims Jesus Christ's love and message to his audience. Bony-Bone Corleone, may God increase and set you in a large place!

Needless to say, this is a must-have album! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Holy Hip Hop hits the spot!
"Holy Hip Hop: Taking the Gospel to the Streets" is a definite must for any Christian rap fan, either a veteran fan of the genre or a beginning rookie listener.This compilation has some flavor from other types of music (R&B, reggae and definitely rap).Produced by Christopher "Play" Martin (for those of you that don't know-a former member of Kid 'n Play from back in the 1980's) and veteran supervising producer, David "Damonsta" Lynch, the hits are blazing off the meter!Featuring music from up and newcomers ShonLock ("Boogie Bounce"), Shei Atkins ("Praise Him"), Ziklag (the bass-filled "Raw & Uncut"), R. Jones ("I Pray"), FTF ("Fireproof"), R-Swift ("Night Sweats") and Infinity featuring Linkz (the reggae-pumped "Holy Ghost Party"), plus with music from established Christian artists like Dynamic Twins ("This Is Me"), Canton Jones (the soothing ole-to-the-Lord jam, "You and Me"), Izreal ("I Pray") and Mr. Del (the down South bumper, "Shake 'Em off"), this CD is a definite one for the clubs, Christian or otherwise.Mariaha Markel's spoken word, "Dedication to Holy Hip Hop", narrations by Andre Williams and the hidden bonus track, Eastwood's West Coast fueled, "L.A.", helps to round out the disc on a positive note.If you're a beginning fan or a veteran listener of Christian rap and hip-hop, then Holy Hip Hop: Taking the Gospel to the Streets is for you!Go out and buy that!You won't be disappointed!Praise the Lord!

A MUST HAVE FOR ANY CHRISTIAN!!!!!!
THE WAIT IS OVER THE CD YOU BEEN LOOKING FOR IS HERE!!!!!THE CD IS CRAZY FROM BEGINNING TO END!!! YESS IT WILL LEAVE YOU BREATHLESS BY TRACK 2 AND WHEN YOU GET TO TRACK 9 YOURE AL READY ON THE FLOOR......DANCE FLOOR THAT IS....BUY.....STEALL THIS CD IF YOU HAVE TO YOU MUST GET THIS CD I HAVE HEARD MANY CHRISTIAN HIP HOP BUT NONE LIKE THIS.....THE BAR HAS BEEN SET AND YES RISE........GO GET THIS CD ALREADY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's ahh-right
This CD has a few good songs on it, I really enjoyed #7 by R. Jones, the message and the music just really touched my spirit. I'd like to hear more from this artist.Good job Play, had no idea you were still out there, let alone bringing it to us in the name of the lord. Keep up the ministry.

Setting Precedence
This album deffinately sets the bar high for Christian Hip Hop.I only gave it four stars because there are like 3 or 4 r&b song on the album that sucked.But that's just because I hate r&b.Track two is so tight, I can't say enough about it.This cd is produced and put together by Play from Kid 'n Play and it is a great testimony to how hip hop can be used to spread the word of God, but if you don't believe in that then get it anyway because the beats and rhymns are unrivaled ... Read more

Amazon.com

In addition to its message of all-out, headlong surrender to the Gospel, Delirious's first widely accessible album also has just plain old good music. Often described as the "new U2," Delirious's resemblance is not hard to detect.Martin Smith's vocals, like Bono's, are far ranging and have a captivating, heart-wrenching emotionalism.The band as a whole has a kind of reckless innovation that consistently surges into stunning new territory. On King of Fools, for instance, the presence of a violin, a choir, and a Rickenbacker in one song is not an unusual combination, and the use of every kind of guitar in existence seems to be their specialty.Anyone would agree that Delirious is casting a mold of their own. Their hunger for God is strenuous and explores the depths of all struggles: the longing for more of Him and developing the patience to wait, the struggle for belief when "blood rolls down upon our land" and when love spills "down that wooden cross" ("White Ribbon Day"), and the struggle when the gifts He brings "rob [our] innocence" ("King or Cripple").In every song, the tension eventually culminates in a contemplation of the Cross--as when in "All the Way" Smith erupts, "with you I'm washed as white as the snow and all crimson stain becomes as a shadow"--and the effect is only more stirring.Never has an album had so much rock and so much passion; listen and you'll be hungry for more. --Courtenay Kehn ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Beautiful!
Where do you begin when you have such a wonderful album? Sanctify-WOW! that song gets to my heart every time. Deeper-their pop hit has such a true chorus. (And the wonder of it all is that I'm living just to fall more in love with you.) Revival Town-To put this song out as a single was possibly a risky move because the lyrics are so unabashadly christian but I think thats what makes the song great. All the way and August 30-beautiful worship pieces.Promise-Pure Rock(A Preview of whats to come on Mezzamorphis). King or Cripple- this song starts our like it might be a ballad but the the chorus jumps out and bites you. Its one of my favs.Hands of Kindness, Louder than the radio, and What a friend I've found are reminisent of Cutting Edge. Where White Ribbon Day, King of Fools and History Maker are all anthums for my generation. This album is one of the best christian or secular ones out there. It has beautiful production and displays many different instruments played to their fullest range.

Simple songs of hope, love, and faith.
This album has great music through and through. The lyrics are unlike the cutting edge albums, but these songs still show the band's devotion to Jesus while still trying to reach out to the masses. The music is definitely uplifting, catchy and fun. Especially liked 'Revival town' and 'History maker'. They just simply tell of God's working in this generation and our heart's cry to follow God wholeheartedly.

Especially liked 'deeper' cuz it rings out so much truth in one line of the chorus. That's the only way to live our walk with God, "to fall more in love with Him".

The drums on this album was great. Liked all the cimbal smashing similar to Obsession in songs like 'Sanctify'.

They still didn't completely abandon the softer songs reminiscent of the slow cutting edge songs in 'All the way', 'August 30th', 'Hands of Kindness', and 'What a friend i've found'.

An album that'll never get old.

Who says Christians can't rock?
I became a Christian because of music. The people who showed love to me helped, but it was the music, all-encompassing and powerful that made me feel like something important existed beyond myself. Delirious's music was a big part of that.

King of Fools is centered around the complementary themes of doubt and faith, questioning God and redemption. One of the reasons I love this band so much is the fact that they aren't always "happy-clappy" like so many other other worship bands. Their songs are sincere, thoughtful, intelligent, and most of all, powerful. They address issues that anyone with a complex faith has struggled with, and found their faith stronger because of it.

For example, take their single, Deeper, one of my favorite worship songs, and one of the first I learned. It's alternatively questioning, enthusiastic, humble and completely in love with God. From the honesty of "I want to be meeker/But have you seen this old earth? and "I want to go deeper/But is it just a stupid whim?" to "And the wonder of it all is that I'm living just to fall/More in love with you," this song encompasses so many of the emotions inherent in the contemplative Christian life. (Or at least in mine.) Plus, it rocks. Likewise, "White Ribbon Day" expresses many of the same fears, and is particuarly relevant today (although it was released in 1998). I certainly couldn't help but think of Bush's lack of doubt about God's support for the War in Iraq listening to the lyrics "How can it be that God is love?/When blood rolls down upon our land." In all, the song is an insistant call for peace and love, following Jesus's message of loving one's neighbor.

As for music, anyone who thinks Christians are all uptight Republicans who can't rock hasn't listened to Delirious?. Beyond their punkish look, the band can rock with plenty of loud guitars and passionate singing. The music is generally straightforward rock, with a few lovely songs breaking the mold. For example, "What a Friend I've Found" starts as a sparcely arranged, prayer-like song and evolves into a gorgeous gospelly song backed by guitars.

In addition to all this, Delirious? prove you can write a terrific worship song without using the words "Jesus," "Lord" or "God" (in fact, they have several). If you want a Christian band that is just a great band in general, listen to Delirious? They're my favorite Christian band, and one of my favorites overall. As for King of Fools, it's pretty amazing for a debut album.

As expected, a strong album by one of today's best!!
Having listened to Delirious for a few years, I expected this album to be a strong one, and I was not disappointed. Overall, about half of the songs are outstanding ("Sanctify", "History Maker", "Deeper", for example), while the rest are all pretty good. The band covers a wide range of musical styles (hard, pop, soft, etc), and they deliver well in each catergory. Although I must admit that I prefer the louder, upbeat songs on this album more so than the slower ones.

I have seen Delirious compared to U2 on numerous occasions, and never agreed with this match. Having listened to this album, I have reconsidered this comparison and think that it does warrant consideration. Some of the songs have a U2 quality, except that Delirious is much more obvious about their faith.

I definitely recommend this album to any CCM fan who does not already own it, especially if you are a Delirious fan. If you are new to CCM, Delirious is a great band to use as a starting point. Musically they are very talented, and lyrically they are powerful.

Perhaps the best CD I've ever heard (Christian or secular)
This CD is incredible. Almost every song is strong. You'll love it! ... Read more

Amazon.com

One of Christian music's most intriguing acts, U.K. rockers Delirious clearly transcend the feel-good, praise-and-worship motif of King of Fools and Cutting Edge with their new release, Mezzamorphis. While the catchy choruses are still there, Delirious now rocks with the edginess of buzz-saw guitars and outer-space-sounding programming. Two years in the making, Mezzamorphis, unlike the band's first two releases, sounds like a true studio album. The first two tracks, "The Mezzanine Floor" and "Heaven," are fine examples of the meticulous work done by the band; smooth choruses set dissonant tones against the hard-rock beginnings for each song. And of course, the magical "Beautiful Sun," with singer Martin Smith doing his best Bono-like falsetto, shows the band can still write wonderful ballads. "Love Falls Down" is another treat with its Mersey-beat melodies. Delirious fans will enjoy the new direction, while others should take note with this fascinating offering. This is the kind of music that can move beyond any genre--it's just good rock & roll. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (87)

I'll Get to Heaven
It's a shame that many Delerious? fans dismissed "Mezzamorphis" as music too electric- too loud- too different from the older stuff. By all acounts, "Mezzamorphis" is a supurb album. Just like "Achtung Baby" was a loud departure from "Joshua Tree" for U2, Delerious? is trying something new. It's obvious that the lyrics here are less complex and on most tracks, not as deep as thier previous worship music, but they are powerful songs about faith and love. My favorite tune is the first track, "Mezzanine Floor", which to me comes across as a very worshipful song in it's soaring melody line and not so much in it's lyrics, which are more or less "I'll get to Heaven" over and over. I appreciate Delerious? for carrying a worshipful attitude into an album that is more a rock album that anything else. Listen and enjoy.

A Must have!
There's not much out there in the way of explicitly Christian punk rock, so when you see a picture of this band, with its prominent leather, post-Rotten hairdos and creative facial hair, and compare the image to the lyrics, which on this album revolve around the central idea of reaching heaven (with a note to fans explaining why the word "hell" was used on one song), you might be excused for thinking that someone's finally done the unthinkable. But in fact, Delirious? isn't really a punk band at all. It's basically a pop group with occasionally extra-crunchy guitars. Luckily, it's a mighty fine pop group; between Martin Smith's powerful and gutsy voice and the songs' indelible hooks, Delirious? ends up sounding at times like a more specifically ideological Crowded House (as on "Follow" and the quietly lovely "It's OK"), and at others like a more intelligent Duran Duran ("Bliss"). The dogma is front and center; Smith isn't afraid to sing a line like "If I'm right then you are wrong" and, if that offends you, ask yourself whether you get offended by Consolidated or Rage Against the Machine. At least this band admits the possibility that it could be wrong. And it does so with hooks.

Deliriously Brilliant
What a stunner this album is. This one seemed to really put the cat among the pigeons regards fan reaction. Some consider it a little industrial, a little too hard-edged in terms of musical content. For me, it's trademark Delirious; daring, bold, passionate and unrelenting. This was Delirious coming off their "could we be pop stars?" trip, and many tracks here are deliberately single-length and as radio-sounding as possible. I consider this to hold Delirious back from their truly magical moments, found on more obviously worshipful recordings. Still, the album is consistent and coherant and flows well.

Stand-out tracks for me are the 'Mezzanine Floor', 'Bliss' (despite the tacky chorus and the somewhat dubious logic of having "really lived" even if they're completely wrong about their faith), and 'It's OK', which was released as a UK mainstream single and did relatively well considering a complete wall of radio silence. 'Gravity' tries a little too hard and the remix of the classic 'Deeper' takes away from how great it first sounded on 'King of Fools', but this album is a keeper and well worthy of my collection.

Christian music done right.
Too often Christian music is done wrong. Horribly wrong. Either it's seen as a way to get started in the music industry("just write a song a slap 'Jesus' on the end") or it's used as an excuse for mediocrity.

Delirious thankfully erased this notion of mine O so many years ago. While they had written some very good worship music with Cutting Edge, no one could have seen Mezzamorphis coming. The melodies are wonderfully put together; and the lyrics have a surprising habit of touching me, even after all these years. Too good to pass up.

Almost perfect: Best of 1999
Ironically, the only track I don't care for is the single 'Gravity'. Other than that this cd is perfect. This could almost be classified as 'headphone rock' because it is so richly textured. The sonic depth of this album is amazing-you hear new things each time you listen to it. I would compare it to Radiohead's OK Computer as far as sound mix, acoustics and ambiance are concerned. Of course, the lyrics here are more upbeat than Radiohead, but that goes without saying. Too bad they don't get the attention they should...(4 & 1/2 stars). ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Whitey's review
Hmmmm...how does a white boy from Montana write a review about rap? I've been staring at this screen for a loooonnnnnng time now.

Actually, the Grits are not a new listen for me. I have all of their previous cds, purchases I originally made to support a good rap group that had made the tough decision to begin their career in the Christian music industry. Their last release, "The Art of Translation," was their most successful - and marked a departure from the urban freestyle beats that they had become known for. Acknowledging that the hip-hop landscape had changed, they worked on putting out a record with more flows & hooks (i.e. more listenable to the general public - think Fifty Cent and "In the Club"). Half of "The Art of Translation" was very listenable, and the singles that were released turned a lot of people into Grits fans, even getting airplay on MTV and BET. The remainder of the songs were apparent justifications for the "skip" button.

This new release is actually the first of a two-disc set - the second of which, "Dichotomy B" will be released in November of this year. Every Grits cd seems to be vastly different from the previous, and this is no exception (even the cover art seems to support that - notice the graffiti text and urban backdrop - the last cover was taken inside of a clean cafe, with a very polished presentation). Overall, the music is better than "The Art of Translation," although it lacks the radio-friendly singles that "The Art of Translation" had. Still, I'm not tempted to skip over any tracks, and I enjoy the diverse mix of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop. For those familiar with popular rap artists, the Grits employ more of a "dirty South" sound on this disk (think L'il Jon or Ludacris), which won't appeal to everyone. However, "Dichotomy A" is their best cd yet, and I look forward to their November follow-up.

strong diverse sound that pleases
First of all this cd is not their best (Grammatical Revolution, top honors in my book) but it is a great contender and a strong cd. I'd say this cd has 5 really strong songs. Hittin Curves is a great intro song and Bobbin Bouncin comes on strong after that. Pardon Me Yo (track 5) is a great lean back and chill song. Get Down (track 7) is so smooth it gets stuck in my head and i catch myself singin or hummin the hook at work. Last but not least Gutterboy (track 11) is the best. the "triumphant" horn beat is inspiring and you cant help but bob your head. This cds main strength is that for the most part you can just pop it in and enjoy the ride. Only a few songs of the cd are what i would call throw away. Those being I Be (track 3) and High (track 6). I Be is just a "Who we be" song and although i like Pettidee who guests on it, he aint in Grits. If any rapper should be in that song it should be Verbs since he's done a lot of work on the albums and performs with them. This song sounds musically weak and has no Christian content which is funny cause thats who Grits "be". High is a song that is basically based on God as the consuming fire spoken of in scripture. Christians will get the ambiguous reference but the main problem is that the beat and flow is mantra like and awful. That being said the other 5 songs are generally good and fill out a great cd.Some better with beats some better with lyrics. The beats are pretty tight on this cd which is why i said the strength of this cd is in just enjoyin the ride.I say that also because Grits' lyrics werent up to par with their two previous releases. Their lyrics werent as clever as they were in Grammatical Rev and Art of Translation. Also their lyrics and themes didnt have as much Christianity. Grammatical Rev is better mostly because of these points. However this is a Christian cd and they by no means try to hide there Christianity. Givin this cd to an unbelieving friend im sure they would like it and see Christians in a positive new light and possibly seek out this Christ that Grits speaks about. How does this cd compare to Art of Translation? My oppinion is similar to a former reviewer's. I agree that you wont find songs on this album like "Ooh Ahh","Runnin", and "Believe" and this album does have more of a dirty south tilt but rest asured, where we differ is this album is better the whole way through. I say this because I skip through alot more songs on their prior album. "Dichotomy A" is a great buy. An awesome mix of bobbin bouncin beats with a little Christian flow thrown in. "Dichotomy B" drops in November. I plan on wearin this one out till then.

Nice, but different, Christian rap album
I wasn't sure what to expect from Grits this time around, because their style seems to change slightly with each record. This record definitely carries a style that is distinctive from that of "Art of Translation." I was surprised by the greater influences of smooth jazz and R&B music on the album.

My favorite track is "High," an infectious song whose beat reminded me of something I might hear from mainstream producer Timbaland. Some other favorites include "Hittin' Curves," "Get Down," "Where R U Going?," and "Anybody." From a purely musical standpoint, I find myself a little bored with some of the tracks, as was the case with Grits' past two albums, but the lyrics are meaningful as the duo seeks to edify listeners and win over the lost to Christ. So, in the end, I like the album, though I'm not crazy about it, and I hope "Dichotomy B" has a little more to offer musically. While I prefer the sound of "Art of Translation" to this record, I am definitely enjoying the first part of the two-disc project. This is another solid release that is positive and edifying!

Grits at their best
This is hands down the best album GRITS has put out. It's the closest to mainstream hip-hop they have ever been as far as production, style and flow go. The lyrics are incredible and the abum jells nicely. My only complaint is that I personally thought the albumn had too many tracks with a 'dirty south' sound (I prefer more of an eastcoast style-but this is just my personal preference). Of course they are from the south, so I guess you can't really expect anything different. But overall this album is a winner (and not just on a christian hip-hop scale). I really don't know how they plan on topping it when Dichotomy B drops in the fall. If you like GRITS and/or if you like hip-hop, get this album - you'll find what you're lookin for.

SURPRISED and PLEASED
This CD is nice. There words are VERY spiritually directed.
The end of track No#3 the sister talking to another sister about a good man (priceless)
No#4 (Anybody)
No#5 (Pardon Me yo) that is only a few.

This is a bit more hip-hop jazz like..

There last one was GOOD but I DEFINITLY like this one better than their last one.
Their lyrics are "off tha hook"

Just listen for yourself, I don't think you would be disappointed...

I edited because the only complaint I have is the video. It's more of the world. With the spinners and the guy with all that Gold in his mouth??...
I think that's where satan can come in and deceive is that we start to compromise because we don't want other people in the world to look at us as being a "Holy roller". but we can't compromise. There has to be a difference bettween us and the world. GOD say's "if I be lifted up I will draw ALL men unto me". So we should not have to be like the world in order to draw people to Christ. It is the word and the name of JESUS that convicts the very inner soul of people. When we stop saying that, what makes us different?
I LOVE their CD, I just don't like the wordly affect they brought to the video. That is the image we are trying to stray our generation from not toward.

They are STILL bringing the word to Christ through their lyrics.. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Much like contemporary Christian, its cousin genre, modern gospel music showcases a larger variety of styles than ever before. The diversity is quite obvious on the WOW Gospel 2001 collection, a 32-track spiritual pick-me-up bound to find favor with most listeners. "Let's Dance," one of the release's hotter grooves, shows this well when the more traditional (Hezekiah Walker & the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir) meets the not-so-traditional (rapper B.B. Jay). Or check out the blistering soul and hard-driving bass lines of John P. Kee and the New Life Community Choir on "Right Here." Of course no gospel collection is complete without a Yolanda Adams ballad ("Still I Rise") and a CeCe Winans tune ("Alabaster Box"). Disc one holds surprises such as ol' Doobie Brother Michael McDonald on Darwin Hobbs's "Everyday." The second disc focuses more on traditional gospel instead of crisp urban pop. You'll have a hard time not raising your hands to the soaring choruses of "Battlefield" by Norman Hutchins. And Aaron Neville brings forth "Mary Don't You Weep" in the classic spiritual style of gospel. Altogether, this collection testifies to the great and varied sounds in today's gospel music scene. --Michael Lyttle ... Read more

Reviews (9)

The Wow Gospel I Enjoy the Least!
I'm afraid I'm seem to be in the minority here, but I really don't enjoy this particular Wow Gospel album. In fact, in comparison to all of them so far, including the latest one, this is the one I enjoy the least. There are a lot of songs that I can't get into because they aim to be more "fluffy" than substantial, especially on disc 1. This wow is simply one I cannot keep listening too, except for Shackles, Closer, and Rejoice (especially Closer by Lamar Campbell and co, which really ministers to me). Once by Londa Larmond is another favorite. If I would have gotten this when it came out, I would have been listening to this song everyday. But since I have her album, I must admit that the novelty has worn off somewhat.

This is truly my least favorite. This was from the 2000 season mostly, where it seemed gospel artists were trying way too hard to be "cool" and appeal to the masses but missing a lot of substance. It's just not one I can just listen to over and over, like the 1st 2 in the series. Even 2000 and 2002 are a little better than this one.

Shared with my family
This album ministers to ones spirit thru songs like; "We fall down". I highly encourage folks to get the whole Wow Gospel series. The cds help propell one further into the spirit world and they help further ones connection to the Creator and knowledge of God.

encouragement
I listen to Disc 2 every single day. I have others, but certain songs on this CD really touches me. As I strive to walk closer with the Lord, some obstacle always seems to find its way into my pathway. But when I listen to "Closer" and "Nothing Else Matters" my mind is clear of all that is going wrong that day or in my life. Why? Because I know that there is a God up above that seats high and looks low and will not let any hurt, harm, or danger come upon His children that love Him and want to do right by His will. It's trully my inspiration.

i enjoyed it
I really enjoyed this compilation as well as the others. It did help me in knowing who was good in gospel and worth purchasing.

WoW, Excellent As Usual...
As always the WoW compilation is excellent! ..., but besidesthat it's all good.

DISC ONE:

The first five tracks on the firstdisc of WoW are very prestigious territory which I've noticed over theyears have been reserved for the 5 biggest and hottest songs of theyear, so naturally the album starts off with "Shackles [PraiseYou]" by Mary Mary, the biggest Gospel song of the year andpossibly the decade, basically to make track one on WoW you must havea video, an at least gold album and secular airplay. Then there's thehot "Let's Dance [Remix]" by first 5 track favorite HezekiahWalker & the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir which features gospelrapper B.B. Jay. Then there's another top 5 favorite John P. Kee, whomade it to track 1 with "Strength" back on WoW Gospel 1999and made track one one the second disc on WoW Gospel 1998 with"Stand". He's back at track 3 with his & the New LifeCommunity Choir doing their new single "Right Here". Nowhere's another top 5 favorite Fred Hammond & Radical for Christwith "I Want My Destiny [Live]", an unreleased version ofthe song from their 2000 pay per view special. And to round out thetop 5 is "That'll Do It", a blazin' hot track from Anointedfrom their to be released and named fifth album. Other standouts onthis disc are the hot "It's Alright [Send Me]" by WinansPhase II, "Personal Jesus" by the always controversial,Tonex, "His Love" by B.B. Jay, "Walk Right" byCommissioned, "Everyday" by Darwin Hobbs featuring MichaelMcDonald, "Fall Down 2000" by Kelli Williams, "I CameTo Jesus" by New Direction, and "Real" by theTommies.

DISC TWO:

The more traditional second disc starts outwith Shirley Caesar's newest single "Rejoice" and then movesinto the super tradional "Battlefield" by Norman Hutchinsand then "At The Table" by Richard Smallwood. Afterward isprobably the most beautiful song of the year. "We Fall Down"by Donnie McClurkin and Helen Baylor's "If It Had Not Been ForThe Lord On My Side" to round out the top five. Standouts on thesecond disc include the emotional "Memories [When Will I See YouAgain?]" by the Canton Spirituals feat. Albertina Walker and thehot, "The Holy Place" by Ricky Dillard & the NewGeneration Chorale. Now as far as the three unreleased songs on the CDthere's "I Anoint Myself" from the F. Hammond Presentsalbum and features RFC Soloist PamKenyon McDonald, .... Then there'sthe upbeat "Once" by Londa Larmond and to end there's"Better Days" by the male twosome, .... As usual the firstdisc is the saving grace of this series. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

It's finally out !!!!!!!!
It took awhile, but it's finally out.....and I am NOT disappointed !!!!!!!!! You won't be either...believe that!
No matter who you are or where you are in your walk with the Lord.....it WILL bless you and inspire you.
Cross movement is by far the best christian hip hop artists out there.......but not just for their flow or how they spit those powerfull Words of God, but because they are not ashamed to say the truth...pleasing those with "itching ears". The album is Hot....I am pleased to hear more "radio friendly" cuts on this album than before, just don't expect some watered down lyrics like most christian mc's ....CM has not strayed from what has made them leaders of this holy hip hop culture...their message, and with tracks like; " RISE UP", "FREE", "IN NOT OF",
"CRY NO MORE", "START SOMETHIN'",AND "CLOSER TO YOU".....you won't go through any buyer's remorse. In fact, those 6 songs I just mentioned.... rival anything and I mean anything ! on secular stations and MTV. If there is any CD to listen too in front of some secualr cats...it would be this one ! There is only 3 songs out of 15 on this album that I wasn't feeling as much....but that's just me.....and normaly on most albums....I'd be lucky to find 3 I'd like...let alone 15 great tracks that I could listen to again and again, like on this album. These cats are REAL and live the "holy culture".....now hear it for yourself! ;)

Hip Hop can be a "Holy Culture"
Oh..my...GOD! This CD is off the chain! Cross Movement definitely represents Christian living in a culture dominated by hip hop (and some said it wouldn't last). Rap music (not hip hop) dominates the charts today, but relies on danceable sounds, excessive talk of material, and misuse of women to sell albums. "Holy Culture" proves you can live "in" this world but not be "of" this world, i.e., maintain a life in Christ while not getting caught into the trappings of this world.

I've been a CM fan since the beginning and I can attest that though they're beats have gotten better and have grown to rival "commercial" hip hop artists, their message has remained the same - JESUS (they even say so on a song off of their "House of Representatives" album). Some may think them to be preachy, but they break their messages down in "bite size pieces" so all can comprehend.

Even though all the songs are tight on their own merit, the ones that stand out are:

"Holy Culture" - This song is the opener and pretty much sums up the whole disc. It's spoken almost in prose - spoken word - format. Real tight.

"In Not Of" - Would would Jesus say if he rocked Tims and Girbauds...? CM lets 'em know!

"Cry No More" - This song was on one of the Left Behind movies. Nice straight forward song offering hope to those facing crises in their life.

"Rise Up" - The beat is HOT! The message - HOTTER!

"Closer To You" - Imagine God telling you he's trying to get your attention and wants to be your #1 love. This is one of the songs he would sing. This song struck a nerve with me.

"Eternal Cypha" - Definitely the "posse cut" of the year, without the cursing and shout-outs. The CM share the mic with some up-and-coming artists who seem to be able to hold their own over a tight beat.

To get a true understading of The Cross movement, I strongly recommend: Heaven's Mentality, House of Representatives, Human Emergency and the Ambassador's Christology: In Laymens Terms (another 5-star album).

It's good to know men of God can stand for what they believe and offer no apologies. Keep up the good work brothas! I'm a fan for (eternal) life!

They Deliver
Holy Culture has all the right stuff, yet the previous two projects and AMbassador's "Christology", had the super stuff. Not to mention their live performance allows them to take it to another level with interludes between songs that talk to a youngin's spirit.
This is one to buy, but you need to see what they have to offer LIVE.

Top notch rappers
When reading customer reviews on Amazon.com of various Christian rap albums, I kept running across references to the Cross Movement (and L.A. Symphony), as in, "This is not as good as Cross Movement." With so many people using Cross Movement as a reference point that all other rap artists must measure up to, I wanted to hear them for myself.

When I got this album Holy Culture, immediately I could see that they certainly do deserve to be the reference point in rapping. They are top notch rappers, delivering with energy and skill.

I've been listening to rap since day one back in 1979 when "Rapper's Delight" hit the scene. I've enjoyed the many generations of rap, including the era of the mid-1980s when about the only backup for the rapping was human beatbox. Yet still for me, the musical tracks underneath the rapping usually have more influence on me as to how much I like a rap record than the rapping itself. As I've read customer reviews of various rap albums, I see that for most, however, the most important thing about a rap album is the rapping itself--the skill of the rapper, the creativity of the wordplays and stories, etc. With the emphasis there, certainly Cross Movement shines on this CD (the only one I've heard by them). As I said, normally I don't pay such close attention to the rapping skill itself, but these guys are so powerful that they command attention!

The highlight of this commanding presence is in "It's Going Down." WOW! While the beat on the musical track is great, what really gets you going is the powerful rapping! I don't recall ever hearing rapping this good!

Although I see the quality of the rapping is top notch, still, to me the underlying musical tracks are an important part of the rap record experience. In this department, Cross Movement gives me great surprises too. "Driven" has a great Middle Eastern jam going on, and the track on "When I Flow (It's Gospel)" almost sounds Middle Eastern. Since I love World Beat music from the Middle East (and in fact have some Arabic rap songs in my collection), I was jazzed to find such sounds on this rap album, and a Christian rap album at that! Other favorite tracks of mine, because of their great underlying musical tracks, are "Rise Up," "It's Goin' Down," and "Start Somethin'"--awesome jammin' beats on these! I also like the somber piano and tubular bells on "Free." (On a mix tape, I put "Free" right after Stacie Orrico's "Instead.")

When it comes to rapping, I've heard no more powerful rappers than these guys. As far as total album experience, I still like Urban D's "The Tranzlation" better--I find it to be more creative and more interesting. But I can't imagine anyone who likes rap music not liking this Cross Movement album.

Off the Hook
They keep getting better and better. These gy=uys surprise me everytime with their new CD. Get it and you will love it!!

Have a Bless and Productive Day!!! ... Read more

Reviews (79)

too many WRONG critics!
I found this cd to be very uplifting and inspiring! The Gospel Gangstaz have prayed, got before God and got the vision! Have any of you ever thought that ministry sometimes mean that we have to go to the sinners house and win them there? The Gospel Gangstaz have done that despite the use of the word "niggaz". They are speaking the language to grab the attention of those who are "gangsters lost". Maybe you might not be the one who this message is for but they are reaching alot of people in the lifestyle of a gangster. so my conclusion is... if you don't like the way the message is brought across don't vent on the Gospel Gangstaz....vent on God the visionary! In my opinion this CD is the bomb!

You'll get more than what you bargained for. Great Message
The Gospel Ganstas have put together a CD that not only has the "Hump", but it's annointed. Make sure you Listen the message and you'll be blessed. Like David, these minsters of music are willing to take on the "Giant" of drugs, gangs and violence, and they're only using what God has blessed them with. Their Music! Favorite Tracks:1,2,4,5,6,10,12, and 13. It's Like That!

The album is hot
I think that this album is one of the best in the christian music scene. Also peole that think that the group's us of the "N bomb" are wrong. The truth is that it is part of black culture there is nothing wrong with that. This word does not degrade something good and special. On the other hand the "F bomb" does degrade the intimate relationship between a man and a woman. There is nothing wrong or sinful about this album.

Must Have!
Depsite the 'N' word used here and there.....ITS A MUST HAVE ALBUM!

This CD is Off the Hook
I'm not really into rap music much, but I really love the Gospel Ganstaz. They combine rap and gospel flava to their albums. I especially like the song I'll be good, and I'm looking forward to their next album coming up! ... Read more

Reviews (16)

The EXODUS is da bomb. Next album expected soon !
Some people say that the EXODUS lacks the sharp edge which the last 3 albums had. i'm here to explain the matter.
The Exodus, released in 2002 is the Funkiest album the gangstaz have ever released (exceptionanal). I have proven that you can listen to it over and ove rand never get tired of it. In this album the 2G'z have merely proven that they are so TIGHT that they don't have to hit you with the full bast to make you boogie. They have an album called The FLOOD, which as been finished for a while now and they let people preview it online. The FLOOD is literally indecribable. As Tic Tok said in an interview, "That album is off the chain". It is the TIGHTEST hip-hop I've ever heard and can ever imagine hearing. The EXODUS is preparing the way for CAMP8 records (theirs) to drop the FLOOD, and although tht not as much detail was put into it s the others, it is still the Funkiest and is still a FIVE STAR album that will keep your head boppin' for a long time to come. But let me just close by saying, If the EXODUS is sooooooo TIGHT, I encourage you to purchase it and Boogie To Woogie and patiently wait for the FLOOD to drop an shake the industry with a quake never to be forgotten.

my Boys they are awesome
Awalys been and they just need to keeep doing it for the lord and he will continue to bless. this is the best gospel gangstaz album and i have alll of them and alll of them are nothing but tight work . holla later to my Boys Solo,Tik Toc and Chil. yalll pick this album up you will not be dissopointed you will love it

Greatness
This cd is tight. Most rappers today really can't rap. They just have nice beats. But with the Gospel Gangstaz, they come with the tight beats and tight lyrics to match. They have a nice mixture of uptempo and slow tempo beats for your individual pleasure. Overall, it's a great cd.

this was off the hook!!!!
i've been a fan of IIG's for a long time and this album immediately comes out strong with Watch, Pray, Live Holy. What's great about these guys is that they a real clever with the lyrics and blow you away with the bumpin' beat. I especially like Bad Company, that comparison of Samson and Delilah in the club had me rollin' on the floor. "Went to sleep with braids, but woke up with a fade." And I do agree tik and chill come wit it nicely but Solo just stands out more it seems to come easier to him.

Comparable to mainstream rap
The album was bangin'! I didn't think the third album was as good as the first two but this one is probably their best work in terms of production quality and self-exploration. A-O and Watch, Pray, and Live Holy stood out. I also liked the new artist they introduced. All three members of OGG are great. Chill and Tik-Tok are VERY smooth, but Mr. Solo's flow is very reminiscent of 2Pac. I think the beats are very competitive with those of mainstream artist. Just a really outstanding piece of work by O-Double-Gs. ... Read more

Reviews (49)

Nice, but a little.... outdated
If you buy this cd, you will hear that it was definitely made in the late 80's-- the sad, short era of White Rappers. Yes, there are some pretty good songs on it (Jesus is Just Alright, Luv is a Verb), and this album was probably a hit back then, but if you are looking for some really good dc talk music, I must recommend Supernatural or Jesus Freak above this one. These 2 cds sound a little more rock-and-roll contemporary, whereas Free At Last is definitely a rap album, and some pretty strange rap at that (at one point they sing "to the G to the O to the D"). If you want a good laugh, buy this album, but if you are looking for something better, I recommend their latest cds. Despite their earlier albums, DC Talk is the best band I have ever heard, and their music is definitely worth listening to.

Free at Last
Toby McKeehan, Michael Tait, and Kevin Max have come a long way since their debut self-titled album, "DC TALK" Since then, they have recorded 6 Studio Albums, a Live in Concert CD, a Greatest Hits Album, and each member is working on a solo album. Quite an accomplishment, and that's BEFORE you throw in the fact that 2 of their albums have gone Platinum. Jesus Freak got the group mainstream success like no other Christian band, but what really makes them stand out was the Free at Last Album. If you've just recently started listening to dc Talk, you know their alternative, edgy sound with a touch of beauty. But fans such as I remember the pre-Jesus Freak days. Days when dc Talk stood for (besides Christ) funky music with the hip-hop beat. My first album of the trio was Nu-Thang, and I played it's guts out. It has the funky beat (a White man rapping was pretty cool, as Eminem has found out), and had quality behind it. Songs like NuThang and Walls were really cool. Then I got the Free @ Last Album, and it was a nu-thang. A nu-thang that blew the old thang away. From the moment I heard the words "Take this mug for a ride" in "Luv is a Verb", I was hooked. And every song that followed seemed to drag me in deeper, and deeper. My favorite cut on this cd was Hardway, a song dealing with learning things the hard way (hence the title). In that song, you can really see K-Max's vocals break through. Toby's voice really sounds great in "Word to the Father" a song that never really made it to chart-topping status, but it has remained a personal favorite of mine. Other tracks are just as great, even though I didn't talk about them. Remakes of "Jesus is Just Alright" and "Lean on Me" are nice touches that make this cd shine. If you are a dc Talk fan, what the heck are you doing without this album? If you are just a casual music fan looking for another cd to add to your collection, you can't go wrong with Free at Last. It has classic scribbled all over it.

FOR ALL YOU "HATERS" ! ! ! !
FIRST THIS ALBUM IS AND WAS AWESOME!!!! SECOND ALL YOU HARD CORE RAP FANS THIS IS A CHRISTIAN ALBUM!!!! "HELLO" THIS ALBUM WAS GREAT FOR CHRISTIAN ARTISTS AND GOD BECAUSE THE GROUP WAS ABLE TO APPEAL TO A LARGER CROWD OF CHRISTIANS WHO APPRECIATED THE HIP HOP GENRE.(I KNOW BECAUSE I WAS IN MY LATE TWENTIES WHEN I FIRST HEARD THIS ALBUM WHILE ENROLLED AT THE UNIV OF MOBILE,AL , A RELIGIOUS SCHOOL) LAST ALL YOU HATERS OF THIS RAP ALBUM WHO SAY THAT IT IS NOT AS GOOD AS THEIR LATER WORKS. "USE YOUR HEADS"!!!! THE COMMERCIAL SUCCESS OF THIS ALBUM MADE IT POSSIBLE FOR THEIR LATER ALBUMS TO BE MADE!!! THIS ALBUM PUT THEM ON THE MAP. IF NOT FOR THIS ALBUM THEN THEIR WOULD BE NO "JESUS FREAK ALBUM" ETC. SO ANYONE READING THIS DO NOT BELEIVE THE HATER REVIEWS. THIS ALBUM IS FUNKY IT IS SMART AND THE MESSAGES ARE STRAIGHT TO THE POINT. IT IS OBVIOUS THAT THE HATERS OF THIS ALBUM ARE NOT INTELLIGENT ENOUGH TO APPRECIATE THIS GROUNBREAKING ALBUM AND HOW IT COMMUNICATED CHRISTIAN PRINCIPLES TO A GREATER NUMBER OF THE MASSES!!!! ALL THE PEOPLE IN MY SCHOOL LOVED THIS ALBUM AND YOU WILL TOO.

The Sounds of Freedom!
Although "Free At Last" was DC Talk's 4th album, this album was the one that catapulted them to the popularity they enjoyed. In addition, many mainstream Christian radio stations began playing DC Talk on the air for the first time with singles from this album.

Many DC Talk fans consider this ablum to be the groups best, though casual fans will probably recognize the album "Jesus Freak" better. The trio seamlessly blended rap, hip-hop, rock, and various other sounds together in "Free At Last."

In addition to the sounds, this album is also known for the lyrics. Once again, DC Talk sings what they believe, which often causes many non-Christians to turn the album off. For those that do listen, they will end up getting a dose of truth and honesty.

An example of a song that states exactly what they believe, listen to track 14. Mirroring an abstinence vow that the trio made a few years before this album came out, "I Don't Want It" boldly states that sex is meant for marriage and not before. No punches are pulled in this song, like using another word for the word sex.

If you have never listened to DC Talk before, I recommend that you start with this album. It is one of the two best albums that DC Talk has done and will give you a good idea of what they sounded like in their first few years.

A big christian album and influential, 10 years later
I was a big big fan of this group and this album when it first came out, it's was like the sountrack of my college years-I went to a christian college and this CD was playing everywhere back then. The Free At Last album is probably the single biggest reason why I got into music production and recording (not professionally yet, but working on it!)
This album stylistically owes the most to the music of the 90's group Bel Biv Devoe, who's album "Poison" was big at the time. Songs like "Word the the Father" take some ideas from BBD's "Word to the Mutha" and so on...BUT!

DC Talk turned the whole genre of "New Jack Swing" on it's side with this one, and combined Gospel, Funk, and R&B music in one of the best ways heard then or since. No corners were cut with the funkiness in some of these jams, especially "That Kinda Girl", "Say The Words" and others, combining bass grooves, synthesizer lines, and James Brown snippets into great christian tracks. This album had very high production values and sonically is a top notch polished work.

Of course, the lyrics are the main reason to get the CD. Toby is a great songwriter and has a knack for making you feel in a song like he's standing right there in front of you just rapping one-on-one about God. Toby has never been a straightforward Hip Hop MC like a secular KRS One or Rakim might be. He's more of a rapper the way, say, Bobby Brown is a rapper, or the guys of Bell Biv Devoe were occasionally rappers. But it's his Christian concern for people and love for Jesus that overshadows that. Mike and Kevin are of course great singers and they blend well with the best of the New Jack Swing groups of the early 90's. You feel like this group is your freinds when you hear this.

Looking back, some in today's Christian "Holy Hip Hop" community might dislike this album and say it had a "negative overall impact" on Christian Hip Hop because it didn't display straight up hip hop lyrical skills, or it was too "sing-songy", etc. But, singing is really what this album was all about...representing Jesus and bringing grooves. If you liked the music of groups like Bell Biv Devoe, Guy, New Edition, BoyzIIMen, and others like that in the early 90's, but never heard this album, check it out. ... Read more

Reviews (47)

It Just Don't Get No Better!!!!
Grits is it! Coffee and Bonafide have created a sound that is unique in both Gospel and Secular arenas. Any real music lover can appreciate the mastery, innovation, and sheer genius that go to make up every one of GRITS' songs. From lyrics to musical compositions, to production to mixing, Grits just blows me away every time I hear one of their CDs. I can agree with one reviewer who stated at first they weren't too sure if they liked these GRITS, but the second time around, it hits you - BAM! - these guys have something that is totally original, and man, it sure sounds good.

I just can't get enough GRITS. Each album is an artistic display of increased maturity, mix of musical styles, and mind grabbing lyrics that leaves me wondering, "What will they come up with next." I don't have a favorite song, I love them all. I just pray for the day when GRITS will receive the recognition that they deserve. You can't go wrong with these guys. Try it you might like it. Gauranteed.

Anyone who doubts GRITS just don't know!
What I mean is this: Coffee and Bonafide go way back in the Christian Hip Hop Scene. Sure Christian rap is about 14 years old now, but GRITS was one of the first to release a HIP HOP album. Do you remember tight jams like 10-A-Cee, Screen Door and Cataclysmic Circles? Yeah that was GRITS. Then they came out with People Noticin Me, US Open, and Fragmentation. My Point is this, GRITS being the best IS open for discussion. But remember, they are the BOMB! I'll be honest enough to admit that when I first heard this CD from them I was a little disapointed. Then, the next time I heard it, it hit me. These Guys are brilliant. They incorporate stuff that anyone can relate to with music that anyone can appreciate. Then they come out with C2K, which is just a "new Millenium" version of the off da hook jam, "Cataclysmic Circles" from their first project. Don't Listen to the one NEGATIVE review from someone who doesn't know anything about good Hip Hop, Instead, buy this CD and see for yourself. If you don't agree that they are some of the best rap out there, then I just don't know about you, do I? PS. The first time I heard of this guy Knowdaverbs, was on a GRITS CD, so there ya have it. dj404's rant about how great GRITS are. I like my GRITS with eggs and milk...not CHEESE! peace!

Junk
If you're into innovative rap and want something else besides a few guys sitting in their bedroom with a drum machine, then don't buy this album. If you're like me and are into tight beats and wicked hooks like the kind Warren G and Dr. Dre serve up, check out Gospel Gangstaz instead. These guys are wannabees with sloppy ryhmes. OGG's is tight.

Somebody Shoot Me!
The message may be good, but the delivery is weak. How come every Christian rapper thinks they can roll out their drum machine, write a few lyrics that are stale, and fire up their Rolad DX-7 and call that rap?! Still, people like it because it is "Christian". DC Talk was perhaps the greatest travesty ever perpetrated on rap! Shame on them for even calling their music rap (not to mention their marketing-based rock/grunge crossover act)! These guys are no exception. Their style is sloppy. In my opinion, there were two great albums in Christian rap history: 1.) PID's original album Here We Are (a-la RUN DMC), and 2.) Gospel Gangstaz, Gang Affiliated. Beyond that, I'll take Warren G. any day over this garbage...

A review written by: In 'N Out of Krispy Kreme
I for one am disappointed with 'Here We Go.' This single is not nearly as innovative as 'I'mma Showem' and does not have the depth or quality of 'They All Fall Down.' Instead, it is indicative of GRits last release, 'Journey Through My Mind,' where the arrangement is catchy while the lyrics are just average. Besides, the song is just way too short. That being said, I am a huge fan of GRitS. Every album they release is more mature and innovative than its predecessor. I expect nothing less with the new album, 'The Art of Translation'. In fact, these guys are good enough to compete with any hip-hop group in the secular market today. The lack of airplay on radio stations probably means that Gotee is not doing a good job of marketing them. ... Read more