Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Sometimes when an artist raises his head above the parapet or starts challenging the status quo, there are those ready to throw stones. In 'Church Clothes' we have hip-hop "raw and uncut", in the words of Lecrae himself, who here offers a mainly, though not exclusively, Southern-influenced mixtape that engages with the wider hip-hop community. His spot-on lyrics, especially in "Church Clothes" have clearly got too close for comfort for some believers immersed in church culture. Lecrae's heartcry is for true Jesus disciples to step up and step out. This project has a radical and cutting edge message that engages both with those within the Church and those outside religious culture, just like Jesus did. The project is simply an extension of what Lecrae does and he delivers powerfully as ever. Guests like Tedashii (the smooth "Welcome To H Town") and the combo of Propaganda, Braille and Odd Thomas (the God-filled and almost underground styled "Micsonception") add fuel to the mixtape's fire. As well as religiosity, 'Church Clothes' addresses many issues with "Cold World" and "Special" being particularly strong. Not to say that Lecrae doesn't sometimes focus directly on God ("Inspiration" and "No Regrets"). Production crosses hip-hop styles (minimal "Darkest Hour" to "Black Rose" with a reggae feel, to the gentle "The Price Of Life" to many tracks with Southern influences like "Spazz").

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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