Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Kevin Elijah Burgess, better known as KB, has been popular with the hip-hop cognoscente for quite awhile now. His work with collective 116 Clique got him noticed while his mixtape 'Who Is KB?' and debut album 'Weight & Glory' brought him considerable critical acclaim. Now Reach Records are aiming to take the Florida-born emcee to the next level and with a masterly fusion of sung parts and dynamic flows this is a powerful celebration that whatever our personal hurts and disappointments our destiny is to become overcomers. KB in fact calls 'Tomorrow We Live' "a mantra of the struggle" which sums it up nicely. The opening track "Rich Forever" is a stirring reminder that in these finance-obsessed times it's contentment, not rampant consumerism, that makes a man happy. Next up is "Sideways" featuring KB's friend and co-owner of Reach, Lecrae, and is a witty declaration encouraging people to think outside their stereotypes (for instance, KB is a rapper with a degree in theology). Another guest on the set is ex-Group 1 Crew diva Blanca, who with Justin Ebach makes "Lights Go Out" a delightful expression of KB's love for God's people, the Church. Another cut sure to attract attention is "Crowns And Thorns (Oceans)" which makes liberal use of the Hillsong United worship classic. Gospel hip-hop has clearly come of age and this is another gem of an album.

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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