Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Described as "intelligent, Christ-centric, hip-hop music", Proverb Newsome brings a predominantly East Coast-based album but with sounds that will appeal to every listener (like the southern sounds of "Stand Tall". Some projects focus on creative beats and breaks, often at the cost of clarity and production but throughout 'The Gaze' Newsome stays honest to an East Coast vibe while demonstrating vocal clarity over pretty consistent production levels. In the title track we're left in no doubt that Christ is his focus. Newsome is a talented wordsmith and he takes us on a journey in tracks like "Missing You" and "Cry Not". Occasionally moving off towards slightly indie or underground hip-hop, the rapper generally remains on point throughout. His style is engaging and listenable while verbalising some tasty vocal snippets. In "Eyes To See" he imagines addressing a cynic who sees some of the Christian world as "all fake and lame," before explaining that "religion and Jesus ain't the same." An album which increasingly grows on you.

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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