Reviewed by Ian Martin

The prophets of the Old Testament, more often than foretelling the future, were channels of God's word speaking into the present. Their voices spoke clearly into the situation of their generation and much the same can be said of Jahaziel and his highly impressive debut. This London born and bred MC speaks with precision directly to the heart of his generation, backed by solid biblical teaching and personal life experience. Tracks such as "Power" and "In My Neighbourhood" showcase astounding lyrical ability employing clever wordplay intertwined with scriptural references. This album has a wonderful flow to it and a great variety of content, from intimate songs of personal testimony such as "Father I Turn To You", to bona-fide head-nodders like "Keep It Hot". Jahaziel manages to express himself with flawless clarity and resounding truth whilst showing great musical diversity as far as beats and styles. There is almost universal appeal: from new-school crunk heads; to true-school purists. Jahaziel delivers undisputed cranium-splitting heat on the mic and neck-snapping soul on the track. This is undoubtedly a holy hip-hop classic and has set a new benchmark for UK gospel artists in this genre and others. A new horizon has dawned. Perhaps hip-hop in the 21st century, with the emergence of life-speaking artists such as Jahaziel, is indeed 'Ready To Live'. It is a refreshing about-face from the '90s when Biggie set the tone stating he was "Ready To Die". Get this, and be ready to live.

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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