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JR
Life By Stereo

JR is back with Life By Stereo, a cool set that meshes urban, rock, dance and praise and worship genres. Like his labelmates on Cross Movement Records, songs of testimony and ministry dominate the project.

CD"Rock Star" incorporates the fast-paced hip hop beats with a subtle electric guitar with JR advising that fame and fortune promises an empty life without Christ. Lead single, "Not A Slave" grooves on an 'Outkast meets T Pain meets Maroon 5' vibe.

JR invites Da' T.R.U.T.H., Izrael of Everyday Process and Trip Lee to each rhyme about the life of a righteous soldier on the beat banger, "Ridaz".

Eschewing clichéd musicality, JR reaches into the heart of today's society. That's certainly true with the banger, "It's OK" and the daring "When the Thrill Is Gone". The latter begins with a piano solo that taps into a melodic motif from The Young and the Restless theme, with guest Lecrae adding a captivating rap.

The soft rock gem, "We Need You" is a song of desperation for God that takes a page out of DC Talk's book. Or even Coldplay's book. Impressive is the way JR goes into these different styles: it's authentic and true to the genre.

"No Fear" is a gorgeous ballad that could find its way to AC radio stations with its guitar solos and the light vocals provided by JR. On the midtempo "Trust In You", you'll want to put the top down and just remember to put your faith in God through it all.

Other tracks that stand out are the remake of Tim Hughes' "Never Lose" and "Your Word".

Life By Stereo is one of the best releases in years, in any genre. This is a complex album that delights in its diversity, taking the listener on a musical and spiritual journey that leaves you with a whole new level of appreciation for God.


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Production: Various
album release date: Decemberf 26, 2007
Cross Movement Records


— reviewed by Dwayne Lacy



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