Reviewed by Pippa Rimmer

The refreshingly frank printed information that came with this new release from MG! declares that "Many heads in this music industry don't have a clear handle on what ministry really is." So MG! is here to put the record straight, so to speak. What ministry isn't about is "packing up and moving to Zimbabwe." For him, it's about playing Stateside to "hard core hip hop crowds as well as suburban kids". MG! has been rapping for over 10 years in various guises in the Seattle area, having also performed live with alternative rockers Soul Food and Poor Old Lu. So, down to the album then. It's a lively and well produced mish mash of the usual rap/hip hop sounds with a few whistles and bells thrown in for good measure. The results do not disappoint. "That Cru" is a whirly mix of staccato rhythms, thumping bass lines and samples, while "Seeds" is all about reaping what we sow and being responsible for living our lives right before God, orchestrated by a delicate flute and guitar. "Let's Cruise" is a boy-meets-girl tale and the choice he makes in walking in purity. A Latino vibe adds an unusual touch to the punchy "Scared As" but if your taste is more quirky, the whimsical "Rukus Bringa" will be a pleaser. Those who have discovered the delights of K2S and GRITS will be tempted by MG!, but be prepared for something a little more left field and less commercially accessible than the usual commercial trappings of rap and hip hop.

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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