Lecrae (Rebel) - Reviews - GOSPELflava.com

Lecrae
Rebel

In the world of holy hip-hop, few have managed the success of Lecrae. Since his solo debut in 2005, the Houston-based emcee has blazed radio, charts, and the hearts of men with the gospel of Christ cleverly intertwined with intoxicating beats. Three years later, Lecrae is back with his junior release titled Rebel.

In trademark Lecrae fashion, this 15-track effort is progressive in both its musical and lyrical presentation, creating another rich body of work to digest.

From start to finish, Lecrae showcases the depth of his musical expressions. Not limiting himself to a Houston or southern-based sound, he allows a plethora of influences to find their way onto this effort. From the pulsating dance rhythms of "Live Free" to the passionate urban worship cry of "Desperate", Lecrae displays great musical depth, finding comfort and authenticity within each presentation.

The emcee's strong vocal delivery finds apposite compliments, as he partners with a number of fellow artists, bringing additional color to the project. Fellow 116 Clique member Tedashii joins the party with "Go Hard", while Trip Lee makes an appearance on the auto-tuned filled "Fall Back".

J.R. and Da' T.R.U.T.H. make their presence known on the thought-provoking "Identity" and Cam and Dwayne Tryumf add their gifts to "Don't Waste Your Life".

As an avid student and intellectual, Lecrae's lyrical depth shines as bright as his musical presentation and lyrical delivery. From his creative depiction of the album's title track to the ever-popular subject of "Change", the emcee takes each track to both entertain and educate the listener while challenging all to think about improving the quality of life through the message of the cross.

Perhaps no track is more intellectually stimulating and challenging than "Truth", which deals with the timeless question of the nature of truth. The nearly five-minute track is a definitive conversation starter and is worthy of its own accompanying workbook.

Secular or gospel, it will be hard to find a more complete body of work in this year's bevy of hip-hop releases than Rebel. Lecrae has a gem on his hands that is certain to be talked about for years to come.

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Production: various album release date: November, 2008
Reach Records

— reviewed by Gerard Bonner —