Reviewed by Sam Hailes

As a founding member of two-time Grammy nominated The Cross Movement, big things are expected from Phanatik. 'Party Over Here' is the US rapper's third solo album, but sadly it's nothing out of the ordinary. There's no missing the theme of the album as track titles include "Black Party", "Pizza Party" and "Surprise Party". Phanatik is known for his thoughtful lyrics but the chorus of "Pity Party" sounds like it has been done before as he raps "I'm high on truth, I'm high on love, I'm high on God". But while some of his lyrics seem a little tired, there's no doubting his positive message, "What's the use in using a substance if I'll probably just abuse it?" he asks. As usual, there are plenty of collaborations including Psalmist and K-Drama, and while they add flavour, overall, the minimalist approach to production means few tracks stand out. Phanatik never has and never will compromise on his message, but his creativity in music and lyric writing could have been so much better.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.

These days, it doesn’t take much to get a party started. The reasons hardly even matter… block parties, office parties, after parties and the list goes on.

In this world of excessive celebration, Phanatik of The Cross Movement returns with his third solo album Party Over Here to explore and expand the concept of a dozen distinct occasions that typically garner the party gathering. Phanatik creatively spins these 12 party themes in order to address key issues for today’s youth and young adults.

While staying true to his unique brand of lyricism and urban theology, Phanatik courageously challenges whether we are celebrating the right things.

Spearheading this thought-provoking exploration, the wordsmith keeps listeners’ heads nodding to the knocking rhythms, while their minds travel to places from the natural to the supernatural.

Songs like Release Party, a play on words dealing with forgiveness, and After Party, contrasting people who live for the weekend with people who hope in Christ for the eternal rest to come, demonstrate the uniqueness of Party Over Here.

Phanatik’s imaginative songwriting forces one to ask several questions: is this song a reason to celebrate or a call for sobriety? Should I be partying over here? What if I’m not partying with the right people? Is God invited to my party? Have I been invited to His party? What happens when the party is over, here?