Reviewed by Steve Hayes

The Los Angeles-based emcee and Tunnel Rat rapper here delivers a combination of rap, street poetry, philosophy, thoughts and unique historical and personal perspectives. Running at 12 tracks, I'd describe this project as introspective, reflective and poetic. Some of the production is by the trio Beautiful Eulogy (Braille, Courtland Urbano and Odd Thomas) and is as sweet as anything I've heard. At times you'll be challenged by the views and insights of Propaganda ("Precious Puritans" looking at the Puritans that settled America and their ignorance towards the plight of slaves) while "Conquer" is a vivid confessional ("I'm sick and tired of people blaming the Devil when we need accountability, growth and never settle/For your maturity levels are like filthy rags/And when he conquers everybody waves the white flag"). Other times, you will be blown away by the sheer brilliance of a track, its production and lyrical eloquence. The lead track sits into this mix, as the lyricism, breaks and instrumentals fit together jigsaw-tight as Propaganda loads us with insight and knowledge and points to the Creator. What else lives in this state of excellence? Well there's the awesome "Redefine Cutter" which does have a hint of the Eagle Eye Cherry, "Together" about it. You'll listen to the poetic paradoxes in tracks like "Be Present" live from Atlanta. You'll marvel at the eccentricity ("Excellent Analogy" ftg Alphonso McAuley). You'll wonder if this is a hip-hop project, a discourse or street poetry. Of course, it's all of the above. Guests like Sho Baraka don't overload but simply enhance the project ("I Ain't Got An Answer"). The only pity is that it's so short.

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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