Nappaland's MusicBlog

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LIFE BY STEREO

J.R. / Cross Movement Records

Fan Appeal: Young Adults

Genre: Hip-Hop

Life By Stereo really surprised me. It has musical diversity that made it both interesting and enjoyable to listen to.

This album breaks out of the mold of the normal rap album, but it isn’t so much of a change that rap fans will dislike it. One of the best songs on this CD is “No Fear.” It is a slower song featuring an organ, and singing rather than rapping. It has the feeling of a gospel song more likely to be found on a Kirk Franklin album. “No Fear” is about just that—having no fear, even in the hard times, because God is there walking with you the whole time. It’s also neat that J. R. doesn’t try to hide that he’s a Christian, and isn’t afraid to say Jesus’ name. “OK” is another good song that talks about dealing with loss and trials in our life. The message is that these are a part of our life that Jesus intended for us to make us stronger.

Even through the diversity of music, there are a few times that this album slips into the average. Most noticeable are the normal hip-hop beats using a drum machine and accenting the lows of the bass. Songs like “Rock Star” and “Not a Slave” sound very similar to each other and blend together. The singing and music are so alike, and since one follows the other on the album, they almost sound like they could be the same song.

If you’re looking for a good Christian rap alternative, this is it. And if you’re bored with the same old rap, this is the album for you.

MUSICBLOG RATING: B+

If members of your family like this CD, then you may want to try…

-The Art of Translation, Grits, Hip Hop/Rap. This high-powered album has good tunes and is different enough to make it interesting.

--TN