Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Some hip-hop albums are heavy on beats and production; others focus on storytelling and lyricism. Motivation ranges from preaching the gospel through to producing an album that people without faith will pick up. Columbus, Ohio, native Taelor Gray, the brother of Christon Gray, manages to produce all of the above in this, his first studio album. Tracks like the brilliant "Scapegoat" cause us to nod to the beat while contemplating the challenging lyrics. "Taelor, you wasn't there for me/I just wanted an ear, you gave me a Pharisee." as Taelor commits to changes while challenging some of the rap world around him. 'The Mocker And The Monarch' is an album of reflections and thoughts about life and Christ - an artist putting his mind and heart into an album and with some top-quality guest emcees and producers. The epic "In.Secure" and the cutting yet semi-humorous "Powdered Toast Man" are particular standouts. Overall, the project is an incredibly thoughtful piece of coherent prose through rap.

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