Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Beautiful Eulogy is a Portland, Oregon-based group consisting of rappers Braille, Odd Thomas and Courtland Urbano. With an album that is made up of songs by Beautiful Eulogy (and one by Propaganda), this 11-track project is a phenomenal introduction to both underground hip-hop and also to the excellence of the three artists lyrically and in production and beats. The introductory track beautifully illustrates our purpose on earth and our desire to be with God. "Exile Dial Tone" is one of the most accurate and insightful vocal illustrations of being in this world but not of it. Absolute lyrical brilliance. Throughout the album there is production that is contemporary, underground and brings elements of digging (cutting up old records), mood, style and timing shifts, along with synth and live-feeling soundscapes. "Anchor" and "Cello From Portland" are both hip-hop shoegazing. "You Can Save Me" with Marz Ferrer is a clear and powerful message of how God alone can restore and save us. The final track "Lofty" speaks of God and his creative craftsmanship. The same phrase could and should be applied to this album.

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