Reviewed by Paul Woodward

Sceptics have claimed that Christian hip-hop lacks biblical and spiritual depth; such cynics would do well to listen to ‘Hawaiian Punch’. Kaimana’s lyrics are both challenging and uplifting, calling for reform in our nations’ churches and society, and celebrating the eternal life gained through faith in Christ. The songs are supported by bass lines so funky they could make Dr Dre jealous. Sadly though hip-hop purists may find Kaimana’s rapping ability embarrassing. This effort adds increasing weight to the argument that white rappers are not in the league of their black counterparts (Gospel Gangsters, Grits, etc) when it comes to style. However, the album will have you nodding your head up and down until you suffer from whiplash, whist at the same time causing you to think. This is a side project for Kaimana (Shane Sowers), full time lead singer of hard rock band, Junker Jorg. On the track “Bleed Me”, Sowers briefly lets go of his desperate rap attempt, daring to rock out a little; as a result, it is arguably the strongest track on the album. It is in hard-edged music where Kaimana’s talents clearly lie and where his message might just reach the size of audience that it merits.

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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