Reviewed by Tony Cummings

This free download set from a Dallas-based rapper kicks off with "Journey", a dreamy, vibey contemplation that God's grace is sufficient. And so we are instantly drawn in to an album which is another heartening reminder that female emcees like Murk, G.L.O and LaToria are creatively, if not in sales, up there with the Lecraes and Andy Mineos. A remix of "Loose" is a rapidly delivered reminder that being a bold carrier of Christ will bring its share of rejection and incomprehension or as LaToria wittily points out, a response that her "slip is showing." Male rapper Meek makes an appearance on "Connect" while the exploration of LA's mean streets on "Watts" and "Constant" featuring pop rapper T J Pompeo are crying out for radio play. There are other guests on 'The Long Walk Vol 1' including Yung Rick and Sean C Johnson though LaToria remains the star of the show, her clever flows always holding the attention. A fine album from a powerful emcee; as her press release says "the album explores different aspects of the Christian walk from curiosity to conviction, encouragement to resolution on relationship status." If you enjoy hip-hop this 2014 release is one to search out.

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