Joined: May 2008 Gender: Male Posts: 12 Location: Clarksville, TN Karma: 0
Pro Black Out Review (dasouth.com) « Result #1 on May 23, 2009, 8:28am »
This reviewer right here is a firm believer that all things work together for the good of those who love Him. With that being said I honestly believe every once and awhile God will allow an artist to drop an album that’ll expose the hearts of man, throw a little monkey wrench in the midst of a situation and even bring humility, not to the one accused but to the accusers. Pro of C.L.E. Records has done all of the above with his debut release, “The Blackout.”
Everyone has preferences as they rightfully should have and are entitled to but certain releases will not only take you outside of your preference but also cause you to make reference to the Scriptures in reference to your preference (as this album has done for many.) Pro, may or may not be your preference but you will have to give this dude the credit that is due when you hit eject on this controversial album. Since Pro is both an emcee and a producer, we will look at both Pro the emcee and Pro the producer. Pro the Emcee Advertisement
As soon as you hit play you’ll notice something different from the usual “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus” CHH/HHH music that is out there. Most DJ’s who truly have their ear to the game or reviewers who really have their ear to the game will confess that CHH/HHH originals do not come in bulk. Therefore, when Pro steps onto the scene addressing the industry and “haters” then you can guarantee he is not your typical CHH/HHH emcee. Do not expect lyrical theology on this album but instead a direct heart and direct aim to separate the real from the fake in the music industry (“That Real”, “Bring It Back” and “I Bet He Lying”) and life (“More” and “Hot In Here”) as well as a heart for the lost (“Where You At” and “Let Me Know.”) Are his lyrics saturated with scriptures? No. Will his lyrics give you an insight to his heart and what he sees? Yes. Pro coins his music “Real Hop” claiming that everything that you hear is simply fake and fairy tales. I love how he says it best when he jokingly ends his album with two questions on “That Real” saying, “If everybody is a dough boy, then where are all the fiends at? …Or if everybody is such a killer then why is the world so overpopulated?” I’m sure if you put that song on for the person in your youth group that is blind to the glitz and glamour of today’s secular Hip-Hop, they’d realize a thing or two about how false it is. Speaking of the secular Hip-Hop one thing that could be argued is that the quality of CHH/HHH is slowly but surely coming up to par with the quality of secular Hip-Hop. Let’s face it; the quality (and content at times) sounded like it was done in somebody’s basement. Praise the Lord this has changed and not only has our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ rose up dope lyricists but also dope lyricists who bring quality music. You will definitely get this from Pro. As an emcee his delivery, rhyme scheme and even voice is something that stands out amongst other emcees in CHH/HHH, let alone Hip-Hop. His strong delivery automatically catches your attention and makes you want to listen instantly. His word play on many of songs is something to desire on raw tracks like...
If I Don’t Wake” where he says “Now everybody can lose their composure/ Except Pro, I’m supposed to look like a soldier/ Soldiers don’t show emotion/ Even when life’s approaching/ But the tears that I shed can swallow me like an ocean/ How do you lead when you’ve never been led/ Mama said to be patient, son you will get there/ Tired of waiting I just want to be perfect/ The gift that you gave me, Lord I want to be worth it.
Pro then goes on to speed up his rhymes with more emotion and more fervor. Now if you haven’t been aware this album has stirred up some controversy with the emphasis Pro has put on himself and boasting in and of himself but I honestly believe those tracks easily get triumphed by the gems such as the one just stated, the hypnotizing “Let Me Know”, the testimonial and melodic “Without You” featuring Coko Korrine, the ode to real Hip-Hop “Bring It Back” featuring Willie Will and my favorite, the reality-check-driven and motivational, “Yeah.” As I said before, lyrically, Pro will expose the hearts of man with this album. Pro the Producer
The variety of beats on this album is stellar. I don’t doubt that Pro’s lyrical career will take off but his production career shouldn’t be too far behind. From start to finish the production is sonically sophisticated and clean. For dirty-south bounce music you can listen to the hard-banging “Birth of A King”, the quick and rapid “Shut It Down” featuring Pettidee, the slowed down “Where You At” featuring Brothatone and Lil’ Jon-like “I Bet He Lying.” Pro does a great job for this reviewer who especially likes hard-hitting eastcoast beats such as “Hate Me More” featuring Kingston and “If I Don’t Wake.” For slow heart-felt beats Pro professionally produced tracks such as the guitar-led “Without You”, the love-song “More” and the electrifying, “Yeah.” Pro even pays an ode to the West Coast with tracks such as “You Know the Deal” and even to Hip-Hop with “Bring It Back.”
Variety? Absolutely!! Clean cuts? Absolutely!! A thirst for more? You bet!! Pro’s production skills will have you highly anticipating his future releases and quite honestly in my opinion the variety that he possesses production-wise shouldn’t cause him to look for tracks elsewhere.
Overall, this album will stand out because it will take you on a journey of Pro’s growth. In the beginning it is saturated with more me-focused cuts while ending with purpose-driven cuts. The reason while I stated this album will expose the hearts of man is because this release will show who are willing to pray and support a brother in his growth lyrically (because I don’t doubt his walk spiritually) and who will be judgmental and critical. Quite honestly, I’m excited that Pro is willing to share his growth with us from album to album and I anxiously await his next release as I’m sure it’ll be packed with dope lyricism, praise-worthy production, stellar quality and transparent growth.
Joined: May 2008 Gender: Male Posts: 12 Location: Clarksville, TN Karma: 0
Pro Black Out Review-(Rapzilla CE Moore) « Result #2 on May 23, 2009, 8:01am »
Home arrow Album Reviews arrow Review - Pro - The Blackout Review - Pro - The Blackout Print E-mail Written by C. E. Moore Wednesday, 15 October 2008
Pro Blackout album cover
PRO - Black Out Who is Pro? That is what I thought when I first received his album for review. I know Christian rap is a marginalized genre within the larger Christian subculture, but I’ve usually heard something about an artist before they hit the airwaves. Not the case with Pro. For me, he has literally come from out of left field.
Let me state this is plainly as possible: Pro is, quite possibly, the best Christian rapper I have ever heard. Now, you have to understand. I’ve heard, reviewed, and interviewed a lot of Christian rappers in my time. Lecrae. Trip Lee. Grits. The Ambassador. Frontlynaz. I’ve heard a great deal of music. So, when I say Pro is the best I’ve ever heard, I do not say this lightly. What is truly impressive about this is the fact that his album “The Blackout” is a debut record. Think of the album as the perfect meeting of the minds—a work that boasts the lyrical theology of Reach Records, the social consciousness of Kanye and Mos Def, and the delivery of 50 Cent and Dr. Dre. “The Blackout” features more of a West Coast vibe for sure, utilizing a lot of the sounds popularized by Suge Knight, Dre, and Snoop. There is a good mix of bangers, slower ballads, and the ever-popular “bangallad”—a mixing of the two.
The album opens with the braggadocios track “Birth Of A King,” which answers my first question, “Who is Pro?” Generally, I’m not a fan of Christian rap that focuses on how awesome the rapper is. The distinguishing mark of Christians who rap ought to be their glorification of God, not the glorification of themselves. However, Pro has struck a balance of acknowledging the gifts God has given him and the [good] pride that comes from enjoying utilizing those gifts in a manner that benefits those around you. “That Real” establishes the socially-conscious side of the album, calling into question the reality of the world that many rapper present to the world and the hood. Pro spits,
“Where all the guns at?/I ain’t heard a glock pop/I walked through ya hood and I ain’t never been shot/And all that talk about you hangin’ where the dimes be/I seen your baby mama/Man she ain’t a dime piece/Where that advance money?/Show me just a little proof/And if you a deal, Mother Goose signed you/Because you specialize in fairy tales very well/We see through you homie/That’ll never sell…” The delivery here is the perfection one would expect to come out of Dre’s Aftermath Entertainment. Pro raps flawlessly over the slick and ominous beat.
“Let Me Know” and “Shut It Down” feature guest spots from eYe-Q and Pettidee, respectively, and continue the forceful yet party-ish vibe established early on. “Without You” features Coko Korrine singing lithely over the chorus of this ballad which features a nice Spanish guitar carrying the beat and light piano in the background. This is where Pro proves he is a professional with production and prowess far beyond what a debut artist ought to have at this stage in the game. Korrines vocals are great and will remind listeners of Out of Eden’s Lisa Kimmey. “Bring It Back,” featuring Willie Will, is an appropriate ode to when rap was a true form of expression. Consider it Pro’s proverbial Brown Sugar—when he first “fell in love with hip-hop.” The following track “I Bet He Lying” is much like “That Real,” but is even more cutting in its indictment of fake rappers selling a picture of success that doesn’t actually exist and only hurts the listener. An uncredited emcee who sounds just like 50 Cent in the second verse is the best part when he says
“Everybody’s a baller, everybody’s a hustler/A million dope dealers and everybody’s a customer/Everybody’s a pimp, everybody’s a gorilla/He don’t pay that homie, everybody’s a killer/When the microphone’s off and the camera on pause/Let’s still keep it real/What about ya’ll?” Other notable tracks include “Bet I Bounce Back,” “Yeah,” and “What I’m Working Wit.”
The theology here is subtle. Pro doesn’t rap Paul’s thirteen letters or come hard with a doctoral thesis over beats. Pro certainly gives credit to Christ for who is and what he is able to do, but his rap seems more informed by his Christian worldview than anything else. That is translated by a clear-cut mission to dispel myths of urban pop culture and inject the truth of Christ into the mix. I can live with that.
Pro is the new kid on the block with the chops of a 10-year veteran. Do not sleep on this.
Label: C.L.E. (Christ Like Entertainment)
Release Date: November 2008
Tracklisting 1. Intro 2. Birth of a King 3. That Real 4. Let Me Know feat. eYe Q 5. Shut it Down feat. Pettidee 6. Without You feat. Coko Korrine 7. Bet I Bounce Back 8. Where You At feat. Brothatone 9. More feat. Dorian Lee 10. Hate Me More feat. Kingston 11. What I'm Working With 12. Bring It Back feat. Willie Will 13. I Bet He Lying 14. Hot in Here 15. You Know the Deal 16. If I Don't Wake feat. Soul P 17. Yeah
Joined: May 2008 Gender: Male Posts: 12 Location: Clarksville, TN Karma: 0
Pro Black Out Review (DJ Wannablessu) « Result #3 on May 23, 2009, 7:59am »
Artist: PRO Album: The BlackOut Label: C.L.E Link: http://www.MyNameIsPro.com Release: Early in Oct 2008 / Officially in Nov. 2008
RATING: 8.5 out of 10 B+ (due to having a noticable lack of Biblical reference and Christian Faith based Substance)
***THE BACK DROP***
There has been an age old debate amongst the Christian Rap, Holy Hip Hop community.
The debate is "Blatancy over Creativity."
Are you serious? why is there EVEN A DEBATE???
Why can't you "Creatively be Blatant" about your faith, your passions, your love, your ideas, and your convictions.
Now mind you as a Christian you profess to have a renewed MIND. so your Faith is JESUS Based, your Passions are JESUS based, Your Love Is JESUS & WORD based, your ideas are JESUS Based, your Passions are JESUS based, and your convictions are JESUS's pleasure.
There is nothing corny, bland, or unattractive about that.
If anything, THAT'S VERY ATTRACTIVE and BEAUTIFULLY-INTERESTINGLY-COMPLEX!
A Kingdom divided itself can not stand...PERIOD. So, I wanted to get that straight.
Now...Introducing Memphis via Tennesse Native by the name "PRO."
PRO is a raw rapper, lyricist, producer who has his album promoted by DJ Wade-O; he has his album sold on HolyCultureDownload.com but he says he doesn't want to be called a Christian Rapper.
AAAAAARRRRRRGGGGGGHHHHHH!!!!
That is so disappointing. NOT upsetting but, dissappointing and a little confusing.
When I say that PRO is raw [as me being a professional DJ, Producer, and Journalist who is STRICTLY CHRISTIAN] it behooves and becomes me NOT to lie to you. This cat is RAW talent.
Even though PRO is a dope EmCee (who doesn't want to be called a Christian Rapper) it's pretty obvious that he is of the Christian Faith. It's just dissappointing that he doesn't have an overtly blatant Christian Message.
PRO has a heart to expose the FAKE in the industry and reveal the TRUTH to the "HOOD."
BUT, MY QUESTION is how can you heal a cough with a Sugary cough drop. Or how can you heal an ailment with a watered down vaccine.
You don't have to deny or despise MONEY like LeCrae Nor do you have to be ALL ABOUT stacking checks to provide for your family either. Those are two wide extremes.
To be an extremist on either side is to crucify Christ Jesus "a fresh," due to the lack of Faith in GOD's word, believe it or not. I say that because it's a lack of that Faith will have you down play the value, need, luxury, and GOD given blessing of MONEY or Currency. And it's a lack of Faith to say that MONEY will answer all of my Wows. It crucifies JESUS a fresh because either side down plays Christ's sovereignty and omnicience.
A Just weight is the FATHER's delight (Prov. 11:1)
I can empathize with PRO's position because a lot of successful or respected Christian rappers talk like "doing music SOLELY for the sake of having a career is anti-Christ." They come across as IF music should only be used for a TOOL. And that school of thought couldn't be further from the truth. The TRUTH is that the Father can and will honor & bless a career in music just like he will honor & bless a career in being a regional manager of a fast-food chain.
Josh 1:8 - This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success
Deut 8:18 - But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.
You don't have to disciple from a Distance like FLAME but, NOR do you have to rap about girls, search for fame, and your disgust with your temp agency or 9 to 5 like rapper Pigeon John.
You don't have to be Mr. Dell with a multi-million dollar major record deal who disassociates and disrespects the whole genre of HHH and all of it's associates (Per Mr. DELL's interview with Vessel Vibe Magazine). This is really a spit in OUR GOD's face based on the denial of His Holy Scriptures according to 1st Cor. 12: 14-18.
In verse 18 of 1st Corinthians chapter 12, it references
GOD's pleasure. So, the question NOW is what pleases GOD. This is something we don't have to take out of context or guess at. The WORD is very clear about His pleasure.
You may think that I'm ranting and that this is going beyond an album review. WELL...Here at DJW Reviews, I take sort of a DJ wade-O approach and that is that this is "More than Journalism...It's Bible Study via music as a back drop."
Here is some of the quotes from PRO on "The BlackOut" Album: "...I Give Truth" "...I'm The Realist" "...I'm a beast on the mic" "...If I'm not in your top 5 your list is wrong" "...Don't Bite My style" "...I get it poppin" "...If you hate my flow, then you don't LOVE 'real'" "...I crush competition, YES PRO is hot" "...Dang Skippy I'mma boast on my flow (in the LORD)" "...This Year Is Mine" "...Yes I'm cocky cause I got it like that"
Now, PRO says that he isn't all about the doe. And honestly it would seem that way. Yet, some of his lyrics make you scratch your head regarding his position, and standards in relation to the KINGDOM of GOD.
Like I said earlier you can pretty much tell that PRO is a Christian with convictions. However, his delivery on A LOT OF his tracks leave you to believe that there's more grooming to be done in that profession of Faith.
So, let's see why this album got a B+.
***FEATURED RAPPERS, SINGERS, and PRODUCERS***
PRO is a producer (a dynamic one at that) so there isn't a lot of outsourced music production on The BlackOut. However, there are two other producers on the album...Doc Watson and Young Vizzy A-Dot. NO LIE...THE BEATS ON THIS ALBUM ARE INTENSELY FEROCIOUS. I'M REALLY BLOWN AWAY. I'm pretty sure you will be too. But, LIKE FOREST GUMP..."that's all I have to say about that." Honestly there's really not a lot of room for critique in this area. We're talking flawless victory, just about!
The featured artist that were brought into the composition of "The BlackOut" Album are Pettidee, eye Q, Coko Korrine, Brothatone, Kingston, Willie Will, Dorian Lee, and Soul P.
eye Q laces Track 4 "Let Me Know" his vocal arangement meshes with the beat seamlessly for a track that THUMPS so hard. coko Korrine sings so soulful, sweet, and musically accurate with her pitch on Track 6 "Without You." It's no wonder that Soul P is on this record because he and PRO seem simular approaches to rap in the Christian music genre but, none the less Soul P holds it down with a solid feature on Track 16 "IF I Don't Wake." Brothatone managed to bring a convicting, wisdom based, and Spiritually inspired contribution to Track 8 "Were You At." I think PRO can learn a lot from Willie Will. He has both the Spiritual and industry wisdom. It's obvious on Willie Will's feature on Track 12 "Bring It Back." Pettidee lends a well applie grittiness to the hook on Track 5 "Shut it down." Pettidee also has 16 bars on the same track yet despite the GRIMMY delivery of his verse, the content is a little loose fitting. Dorian Lee sings with a patient calculation of his approach which makes every note of his vocals of the chain.
For the most part the veterans help PRO in the ring. But, it's the new comers that are featured on this album that really help and prove that they aren't expendable. The new coming rappers and singers featured on "The BlackOut" will definitely turn heads.
***TRACKS TO WATCH FOR and OVERALL QUALITY***
There are several songs off of "The BlackOut" That floor you with their massive appeal. Track 4 "Let Me Know," Track 6 "Without You," Track 9 "More," Track 13 "I Bet He Lying," Track 16 "If I Don't Wake," Track 5 "Shut It Down," Track 8 "Where You At," Track 17 "Yeah," Track 15 "You Know The Deal," and Track 11 "What I'm Working With."
I have no information or names on technical notes to share with you but, I can say that "The BlackOut" should have a warning label on it, for the life of your speakers.
This album knocks. This album knocks. This album knocks.
The mixing is strong...making the singers vocals sound beautiful and balanced. You can hear the rappers distinctively. And the mastering is superbly SOLID. The quality of "The BlackOut" album supercedes amature status.
In light of every single angle and point of view regarding PRO's "The BlackOut," I'm impressed and vexed at the same time.
There is so much talent embodied in this guy and this album... Yet it seems that he buried it in the dirt by over shadowing substance with the consistant lyrical highlite of his skills as an artist/producer.
Longterm you just can't be successful rapping like this when you know better. The HOOD, The BURBS, and The 3rd World Countries are looking for TRUTH. If you have it then give it. And you don't have to be a theologian or seminary graduate to give such truth.
Christian Rapper J. Johnson (formerly J.Silas) says this on FLAME debut album...
"I got some lumps on my head from some Bibles" "I gave some too, thank Christ for Survival (of ignorance on his part and others)"
So, I'm not saying that PRO has to bust heads with Scripture but, we know...so that we can understand and we understand... so that we can show.
PRO proclaims that he isn't "perfect." But, my prayer is that PRO matures even more as a SON of GOD through Christ. There's no shame in that.
Yes...WE may be the ONLY Bible that some people ever read but, we must be full OR full to the best efforts of the WORD because eventually your Mouth 'aint gon' be able to keep your Heart from Telling on you. Luke 6: 45
Hands down PRO is one of the illest producers and rappers to be on this side of heaven.
But, with more substance, humility, maturity, and wisdom THE HEAVENLY PROFESSIONAL of Professionals WILL UNDOUBTABLY exalt this PRO.
Joined: May 2008 Gender: Male Posts: 12 Location: Clarksville, TN Karma: 0
Pro album review (illspot.net) « Result #4 on May 23, 2009, 7:54am »
Pro " The BlackOut" CLE Released: 2008 Review by: Holy Ridaz Committee Rating: 4.10 (of 5)
4.10 (of 5) I have been a fan of Christian Hip Hop for more than a decade; way back when rats funneled through tunnels and artists moved the Cross and spit their rhymes, while simultaneously serving as lamp modes in an otherwise darkened Hip Hop environment. Back then it seemed that my Christian Hip Hop came in two different flavors, those who were connected to and trying to reach the streets, and those who took more of a straight-laced Biblical/Theological approach. Since then the genre has begun to transform and merge, offering much more than just those two flavors.
So what does my retrospective flashback have to do with the new release by Pro? Everything! Pro's new release "The Blackout" is one of the better comprehensive Christian releases aimed to reach the streets. Through the use of creative production and attitude-laden rhyme skills, Pro steps up to the mic and challenges many of the lies, deceptions and misconceptions that are so boldly being promoted in the Hip Hop culture. "The Blackout" is packed full of memorable, bangin music and Pro's rhyme skill is undeniable. I would pit this one against any secular project in the industry.
If I only had a few words to sum up the debut release from Pro, "The Blackout", I would have to use Pro's own words..."this is That Real Hop!" Released this year by CLE Records, "The Blackout" is well produced. The album is evenly balanced and features honest, heart-driven lyrics, bangin beats and some devastating lyrical and musical tag-teaming...putting the smack down on fake emcees and wannabees.
I think what I like the most about "The Blackout" is that it takes a stand against many of the things that are wrong in the culture. However, Pro does so in a skillful and logical manner that I believe will actually challenge and provoke the listener to reconsider and reevaluate what the industry and culture have been trying to shove down their ear-holes. Through tracks like That Real and I Bet He Lying, Pro challenges the pretenders who claim street credibility in order to boost their careers and record sales (a certain policeman turned rapper comes to mind when I hear these tracks). Other tracks like More, and Hate Me More, reveal a personal, vulnerable side of Pro...an everyday person who faces challenges and struggles just like the next man.
Although Pro demonstrates flexibility and variety in his flow, the one constant throughout this project is the starting point of a heart centered on Christ. Pro is an artist who is confident and secure in who he is in Christ and is determined to reach those still in the streets.
Pro flexes his production muscles on The Blackout, and gets some help from the likes of Doc Watson and Young Vizzy A Dot. Special Guest appearances include Soul P., Pettidee, Kingston, Willie Will and more. Shut It Down, which features Pettidee, is one of the hardest tracks on this cd. Hate Me More, which features Kingston is also an instant favorite that I could relate to.
All in all, The Blackout features 17 hard-hitting tracks that will keep your head nodding and foot tapping from start to finish. But don't let it fool ya, if you listen closely you will find that there is a lot more to Pro and his message.
Kingston’s “In The City” album is one to be reckoned with. With head- knocking beats, and obvious artistry, CLE comes forth with another great release by another great artist. When this album first came out, it was actually the first mention that I had of this artist, and the single that came out was “Put Your Hands Up,” which was played on the Wade-O radio show. Whenever I think of what CLE is doing, the word that comes to mind is intriguing. Their music causes me to look into what God is doing in their lives, for whenever they do things it comes fresh.
“Put Your Hands Up” is an anthem track and you know who Kingston reps! Very refreshing beat was put towards this, and the song wasn’t anything deep and profound, but expressed the dedication to the Lord and also shows that when given to the Lord, you should end up breathing excellence, because of who He is and what He has given you.
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Like I said, the way beats were laid on this album was of a refreshing flavor, and just makes you breathe. One of my most favorite tracks on this album is “Can’t Stop,” and that’s what you should never do, never ever stop. It’s an encouraging reminder to press in Christ, because as Paul said, there’s a higher calling in Christ. This song actually prefaces to another song which is very powerful! The song “Pray For Me” is one of the realest songs that I’ve heard in some time, and I first remember hearing this song on Pro’s mixtape and just felt the weight of the calling that God has placed on the lives of the men on this record label. It causes me to remember the seriousness of walking in Christ, and not forgetting how much of a battle we actually are in and just because we aren’t dealing with certain temptations doesn’t minimize the importance of fighting against it. Prayer is actually a big thing in my life in regards to having peace with other believers. I often begin to wonder if the life of your favorite artist was spoken by God to you, would you support them or call them a compromiser? Or would you pray?
Listen to what Pro says in a part of his first verse that hits things home about this:
“Can’t lie, I won’t the money, fame and all/ but I ask God to balance me pain and all/and through that I was made as an example for yall/so why is everyone judging me for huh!/like you don’t wanna ride clean in a Benz/you don’t wanna see your mama not struggle for ends…so tonight when you close ya eyes, just think of the guy hit one knee and look to the sky/and like you pray to God that I reach the prize/change the world with a rhyme before I meet my demise”
Things like these you can’t make up, especially Kingston’s verse:
“My cuz lost his life/his momma locked up/im bout to go to war and im worried about my wife/my momma stressin’ cuz she need me,/ makin this music aint easy feel like im being weighed to my needs…im a rapper but this the battle to add to the fact that Satan after ‘em,/just the glass so close to shattering, matta fact im close to fallin in the trap Satan had Adam in…”
Point blank, ministers need your care in prayers, for they mean something. You also can’t say that I’ve been praying for you when that means that you haven’t prayed and will start tonight (I’ve done this sometimes). I really feel this track is needed.
There were others on this album that really caught me as something that made a difference on this album. Those songs would be “Run They Mouth,” “Game Won’t Change,” “Life In The City,” and of course “Speaking Murder.” “Run They Mouth” was for one, a track that speaks on the rappers who just run they mouth, but also I think that I can make my own connection to the nature of rhyme schemes given by Kingston and Eric C, where they not only spit rapid-fire lyrics, but they are actually saying something with the lyrics. Another song with the potency and heartfelt lyrics from Kingston and Pro would be “Life In The City.” It speaks about the prevailing attitude and atmosphere of communities in the city, and just me being in a school in NY, that attitude is seen everyday and it’s something that needs to be dealt with, and I liked the approach by Kingston and Pro. They spoke what was necessary, and brought encouragement needed. I liked when Pro highlighted the fact that people see one thing in people, and he sees another. The fact is, is that due to circumstances, people’s views of themselves tend to change and a lot of dreams are often given up upon because they can’t see past their environment.
Another refreshing track was featured with Coko Korinne, named “Game Won’t Change.” The vocals from Coko were easy going and it came across very smooth. Doc Watson is one producer that knows how to craft a beat based on the style of the artist and him and Kingston have great chemistry.
Also, on the last track, don’t skip after the song ends, I found the comedy on the extra part added to be hilarious! I remember being on the train trying hard not to laugh and look like I’m crazy and laughing out of nowhere!
My only issue with this album would be with the way certain words came off from Kingston. With his rhyme style, sometimes it can sound like his words are slurred together, which may make it a little hard to hear certain pronunciations of his words. I love the style that he has, but it needs to be made sure that the words come off as clear as possible, without losing that great style.
This album is very refreshing as I have been saying, and even though it’s only 11 tracks strong, I felt this was a complete offering by Kingston, and another bona-fide CLE release!
Joined: May 2008 Gender: Male Posts: 12 Location: Clarksville, TN Karma: 0
Kingston-In the City (Illspot) « Result #6 on May 23, 2009, 7:51am »
Kingston "In the City" Christ Like Entertainment Released: 2008 Review by: Don Tony Committee Rating: 3.56 (of 5)
3.56 (of 5) "In The City" is like an all-you-can-eat lyrical buffet. Pick any track, put the CD player on shuffle, whatever you land on will be serving up lyrics. This is pretty much a straight up hip-hop album with few commercial moments, but nevertheless, some pretty ambitious beats. Though quality is one area that caught my critical ear, the album has much to offer in that it is lyrically creative, and hosts some sick flows and features.
Although I usually favor the more commercial/pop styles, every now and then I get in the mood for some real, uncompromised hip hop lyrics. "In The City" scratches that itch while still keeping it musically interesting and actually not being overly theological (if there is such a thing--you tell me, is there?). "In The City" tries to say something in every track and largely succeeds in doing so. From witnessing and reaching out to hip hop fans to personal testimony to admonishing his secular counter-parts, Kingston effectively communicates his message with style.
Like I said, there are some pretty ambitious beats on this project. They don't necessarily cross over into the commercial/club -banger realm, but it's definitely not your typical boom-bap style that usually accompanies east-coast lyricists. "Run They Mouth" is a track that actually ventures into a very southern style. The track itself is bolstered by sick, Twista-style flows in the verses and the obligatory chopped and screwed hook.
The album has a mix-tape feel which makes it difficult to judge overall sound quality. Vocals on some tracks are better than others, therefore it's safe to say there is room for growth. Based on what I've heard, I don't doubt that Kingston is an artist that is growing every day. Hip hop fans won't be disappointed with this one in my opinion. The bread and butter here is flow and lyrics. Pump this one in your headphones and PAY ATTENTION!
Joined: May 2008 Gender: Male Posts: 12 Location: Clarksville, TN Karma: 0
Christian Manifesto Album Review « Result #7 on May 23, 2009, 7:44am »
andale-white-flagGENRE: HIP-HOP/RAP
LABEL: C.L.E. (CHRISTLIKE ENT.)
RELEASE DATE: MAY 1, 2009
RATING: 3.5 OUT OF 5
Short Version:
With only twelve tracks, it’s unfortunate that White Flag falters mainly because the album has one too many filler songs. Instead of being just a solid album, White Flag would’ve made a flawless EP if only a couple tracks were given the axe on the C.L.E. cutting room floor. That said, White Flag still manages to display Andale as one of the more talented rappers in HHH. Despite the album’s shortcomings, White Flag is worth the price of admission mainly because Andale is a microphone maestro who excels more often than not.
Full Version:
I think people, including yours truly, often underestimate the deliberate focus and direction required to compose a seamlessly cohesive, complete album. It’s one thing to be a dope artist, have a collection of dope tracks, slap them together and call it an album. It takes a completely different vision to make those tracks complement each other and function as a truly complete album in every sense of the word.
Coming off the heels of introducing Pro to the world, C.L.E. brings to the limelight an emcee by the name of Andale and while his debut, White Flag, falls short of being a complete, holistic album it certainly should not be written off altogether. You may be wondering why I’m framing this review in the context of a complete or “fragmented” album. Well, I have to say that White Flag is solid—to the extent that Andale’s strengths and successes actually force you to recognize the project’s weaker parts.
It’s fitting, given the Spanish meaning of andale, that things begin with Andale spitting a fast-paced demonstration of lyrical elegance on “White Flag Intro”. Over an up-tempo rodeo-esque beat, Andale shows his lyrical dexterity by switching in and out of double time in a way that rivals Chicago’s famous motor-mouth, Twista. That great thing about this intro is the message that Andale conveys with precision: life is to be surrendered to Christ. On the hook, Andale makes the message of the white flag very clear:
“White Flag, I surrender all
Laid down, face down on the ground, prostrate
Father, forgive my flaws
I’m waving that white flag and I’m beggin’ you for mercy
I’m so dirty, I’m not worthy, Father I hope ya heard me”
From the outset, there is no doubt that Andale is an absolute beast on the microphone, effortlessly switching up his cadence while sporting a crisp delivery and some sharp punchlines (for example, “time is running short like Gary Coleman in a marathon”). As far as his delivery and flow, Andale is nothing short of an incredible talent. I’m not sure how long the man’s been on the mic but it sounds like Andale’s been doing his rap thing since birth.
“Supa Strait” is the type of anthem that you’ll want to bang in your ride. Over a catchy, heavy electronic synth, Andale celebrates God’s everyday provision in a way that doesn’t make God look like an ATM, at the same time, hitting on Christ’s power to transform lives.
Andale shifts to a horizontal perspective on “Why I Call U Jesus,” a praise anthem directed not just at the listener but toward Christ, enlisting the help of T-Dogg and Verbs. Both guests hold it down, even mixing in a little spoken word for some extra flavor. This track is a genuine, emotionally-provoking praise song, the type that will compel you to reflect on the person of Christ—something even most HHH songs fail to do.
Given the strong first few tracks, including the party track, “Party Tonite” and the testimonial “I Want That (Let Me Know),” the second half of White Flag falls short of the quality of the album’s earlier parts.
“Come Around,” a cautionary street tale flops thanks to a banal hook and a lackluster beat. “Speaking Murder” is nothing incredibly noteworthy but instead sounds like a throwaway track that didn’t make the cut for Pro’s The Blackout and less like a track that fits with White Flag (“Homie Please” is the trademark C.L.E. street-engaging anthem that doesn’t seem forced and fit well on the album). “A Capella” is cool and all but really has little to no replay value.
While these tracks seem out of place and detract from the early successes of White Flag, the soulful, vulnerable side of Andale is displayed on tracks like “Tearz of a Clown” and “Disappear (Interlude)”. On “Tearz of a Clown,” Andale’s vulnerability becomes visible as he on reflects the pain and agony he has witnessed in his life. At times sounding much like the psalmist, he candidly ponders the “why” of these events while remaining in posture of praise toward God.
The soulful, guitar-tinged “Disappear (Interlude)” continues Andale’s openness on his daily struggles and dependence on Christ. Honestly, these are the kinds of tracks—as opposed to the street-engaging anthems—that fit best with the early parts of White Flag. It’s on these authentic, heartfelt tracks, that the prevalent theme of White Flag is best proclaimed, that through the good, the bad, the pain, the confusion, and the suffering of life, Andale still surrenders in faith to Christ.
With only twelve tracks, it’s unfortunate that the project falters mainly because the album has filler songs that fail from mostly from mediocre execution and the fact that they seem out of place on the album thematically. Instead of being a solid album, White Flag would’ve made a flawless EP if only a couple tracks were given the axe on the C.L.E. cutting room floor.
That said, Andale has certainly established himself as one of the more talented rappers in HHH and placed himself in the front of the pack of new artists in the genre. Not only has White Flag established Andale as an artist to be reckoned with but with yet another solid artist debut, C.L.E. is quickly climbing the shortlist of influential labels in HHH. Despite the album’s shortcomings, it is worth the price of admission mainly because Andale, backed by some solid production, is more often than not exceptional on the microphone.
Joined: May 2008 Gender: Male Posts: 12 Location: Clarksville, TN Karma: 0
Andale' Album Review on Dasouth.com « Result #8 on May 23, 2009, 7:39am »
DaSouth.com Stars: review-3.5-5
andale-whiteflagMay 1st will officially become a day of surrender once you are invited by Andale to begin to discover the meaning of “White Flag”, a 12 track offering full of introspection of oneself, to proclamation of the gospel as well as hypocrisy seen by the entire world in Hip Hop music.
The album starts off with a pretty cool introduction, for it has a bit of a pop to the beat and the lyrics, with the chorus kind of mellowing out the track. It sets the tone of the album, which is all about surrendering, because of the power of Christ that has brought Andale through and he expresses the joy of surrendering to Him. On the second track, “Supa Strait” one part I liked was when Andale kind of shouted out Lecrae when he said that he is in his car listening to the track “Go Hard”. I’ve always loved when artists in Christian Hip Hop are mindful of other co-laborers with them. One line I thought was ingenious is the part where he said:
“I’m supa strait, supa strait/ dyslexics I’m straight super”
I don’t know about you, but that part caught me when I first heard it. What’s great about the songs on his albums is that they aren’t just filled with witty punch lines like above, but there is content in his lyrics as well and great introspection. For instance on the song “Tearz of a Clown”, Andale really comes through with a song similar to Psalms of David in expressing his lack of reverence at times and how it makes him feel dirty before the Lord, and when others would say good job it wouldn’t look like it from his perspective because of his own double-standard of living, or even when people would look down on him for his shortcomings. Reminded me of Corey red’s line when he said you laugh but shed the tears of a clown. This song was very heartfelt and whenever I hear transparency on a record I always give respect to a person, whether or not the beat was worthy of it. Speaking of the beat, the beat for this song was very mellow with a dip of happiness sprinkled by the horns in the chorus which I can see as showing that side by side view of happiness given to the people but sadness sometimes received or lived in as well.
One of my favorite tracks on this album happens to be “Speakin’ Murder!” The theme of a white flag goes well with this as well, because CLE’s own Pro and Kingston come through with support on this track to pretty much rebuke the lies spoken constantly on the mic about rappers murdering people, as well as the people supporting this stuff, basically telling them to surrender that lifestyle of fakeness and be real with yourself. Check out Pro’s cut throat lines here:
“I don’t care, we don’t believe you/matter a fact your hardbody is see-through/ homie I done peeped you/ suburban guy, career is a lie/could never be God but still they try…listen “Thou shalt not kill or bear false witness”/I expose your lie, I guarantee we splittin’ it, murder!”
Listening to this track reminded me of what Lavoisier did with his video project concerning fake rappers, intentionally calling out T.I. and others, because of the fact that when people criticize them for their lyrics, all of a sudden its just entertainment.
Another track that deserves attention is the Let It Bang Remix with K-Drama featuring. I’ve always loved this track, and Andale took it to another level with his rapid fire flow, and it didn’t come off like he was stumbling by going to fast. K-Drama laid some fresh words of wisdom on the tracks as well. A very good remix indeed. Andale’s rapid flow was shown on his acapella as well, which was amazing.
The album was filled with great beats to spit over I must say, and filled with producers from Pro, T-Dogg, Doc Watson, Dirty Rice, K-Drama, and Kelvin Wooten. I must point out a surprising feature on the album as well from Verbs (formerly known as Knowdaverbs) on the track “Why I Call You Jesus”. Even though some people are tired of the T-Pain effect, I felt it came through pretty good. Other features on this album included Brothatone, and as previously noted K-Drama, Pro, and Kingston as well.
I honestly was expecting a lot more tracks than was given so admittedly 12 tracks may serve as a disappointment to many who have been waiting for an album from Andale, but this was a very solid release!
Joined: May 2008 Gender: Male Posts: 12 Location: Clarksville, TN Karma: 0
FREE ITUNES DOWNLOAD!!!!!! « Result #10 on Nov 28, 2008, 7:39pm »
Hey send your email to docwatson@christlikeent.com. Once a week we send out 2 free ITUNES ALBUMS from CLE. We are currently giving away PRo-Black Out...hit me up and I may select your email to send the ITUNES gift to. We will also add your to our email list if you have not been on there yet!...God bless and hopefully we pick you!
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