STYLE: Hip-Hop RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 136462-20256 LABEL: Collision FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Steve Hayes
WLAK aka We Live As Kings features US rappers Swoope, Alex Faith and Dre Murray plus singer Christon Gray, who come together for a uplifting and inspirational project, mixing hip-hop and R&B through tight, strong emceeing and soulful vocals (eg, "Long Way Down", "Eyes For You"). The project finely balances soaring quality in production and hooks, yet with a slightly underground vibe at times, often through the fresh and meaty beats handled by Swoope, Dirty Rice, Wit and others. "Imagine" over epic breaks, strings and piano is an inspiring standout track ("Kings die every day but we live for ever/Kings who die every day"). There's a rolling military vibe on "Reign Is Coming" with the memorable lines "It's gigantic, bigger than King Kong/You can't stop this everlasting kingdom." The project traverses styles with tracks like "YHWH" bringing a southern flavoured beat as Swoope and Dre Murray explore God's character while Swoope brings some sweet timing on "ABNY" (with Alex Faith). Another standout is "Arena" which samples Hillsong's "woah-oh." from "With Everything" as Dre Murray testifies and sets his eyes on the Son.
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.