Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Georgia-based McNease is a highly talented individual. His lyrics are rightly described as being 'funny, quirky, intricate and thought provoking.' This project is this and so much more. The overall impression is of tremendous passion, humour but with an underlining depth of message such as, "Everything Goes" with its mix of vocals, beats, guitar and scratching. Heath showcases a varied flow from underground to more commercial sounds, "Nintendo Thumb" showcasing Heath's own lyrical agilities. "The Gun Show" with the highly gifted Playdough pokes fun at our obsession with physical appearance. There are so many contemporary references that there are too many to list, but "Nerd Out" is a shout-out to all those sci-fi nerd types! Varied influences abound, but the multi-layered Queen structured song, "Thank You" revealing the hurt of a broken heart is one of the best. Political-rap isn't his thing, but the reality of death is confronted in "Common Cold" with elements of electro. Tough issues confronted include suicide on "Pity Party". On a number of tracks, guitar-riffs and acoustic undertones lace the wordplay ("Disco Biscuits", "I Will Live" and the reggae-influenced riffs on the heavenly home themed "Zion"). Other artists add so much, from the distinctiveness and vocal insight of RedCloud on "Zion" to the fun and flowing tones of Pigeon John in "American, Idle" satirising the desire to be famous overnight. Outstanding.

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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