Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

South London-based rapper Still Shadey's latest album is very much an autobiographical affair which charts the joys, sorrows and challenges that have come his way since stepping from the shade into the light by becoming a Christian three years ago. A blend of slow grime, trap, rap and much more, this hefty 17 track offering finds Shadey and his team keeping things downbeat with the use of predominantly minor keys and minimalistic electro bleeps and clicks helping to paint a picture of the gloom that permeated his teens thanks to drug and gang culture exposure. That being said, Shadey never misses an opportunity to declare God's sovereignty in his new life but this is done with a gritty realism that recognises his walk with Jesus is by no means perfect with the hugely personal "Chapter 23" summing up an album that tells of the man's faith and failings in equal measure. Whilst fitting for the overall feel of this release, the constant use of muffled beats and stripped back electronic sounds to back Shadey's adept delivery of his skilful and now expletive-free prose occasionally makes for a colourless listen although contributions from the likes of vocalists Asha Elia and Sharelle McAlla on "In Control" and "Cry Sometimes" respectively help to spice things up a bit. Nonetheless, this is a fascinating journal of sorts that documents in hype-free fashion the change that Christ, against all odds, can make in a person's life.

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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