Reviewed by David Faulkner

This is a CD that starts with a bang. "Intro" begins so dramatically, it greets you with a brotherly kiss from Atlanta, Georgia. It seems to set an agenda for melding hip-hop production with classic gospel values. Where it works, as on "Broken", it is truly arresting. "His Will" is a deserved radio hit. For added value, there is a short DVD with the release. However, the more the CD stays in the drive, the more safe and predictable it becomes. Yes, the nine vocalists are classy and occasionally startling. However, MOR gospel wins through too often for these ears, along with King James clichés and lyrical sentiments that make a pastor like me nervous. Is it right to claim that Jesus changes our DNA? Is it adequate to describe discipleship as being a Jesus fan ("Pep Rally")? In summary, for a debut recording it promises much. But some of the promises await fulfillment.

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.

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