Rebel by Lecrae

Reviewed by Steve Hayes

A major hit Stateside, this is a breakthrough album both for Lecrae and the whole Christian hip-hop field which has too often been ignored by the Christian media. The powerful intro track sets the tone for this truth-filled and heartfelt album, as Lecrae spits rebellion over a slow burner. This is no ordinary rebellion, but the lifestyle of unashamedly following Jesus Christ. Lecrae explains we are in rebellion against the culture, not conforming to the ways of this world or this age. "Don't Waste Your Life" featuring Cam and Dwayne Tryumf identifies a burning passion of not wanting to waste life, as double-time rhymes roll over rumbling bass. Excuses such as procrastination are pushed away in a commitment to Jesus. There are a number of more traditional dirty south bangers crying out praise and cries to God to use us ("Go Hard"). Lecrae and the production team bring a range of varied beats, such as the house beat-ing and catchy "Identity" with Da T.R.U.T.H and JR, and "Live Free" featuring Sho, declaring we are free from sin and death's power in Christ. Another epic track with interesting production arrives in the form of "Change". Lecrae fills his album with depth and powerful truths about Christ and life, "Truth" (found in Jesus alone) and "Desperate" (for God), featuring Cam. As we draw to a close, Lecrae represents with "Beautiful Feet", with Dawntoya - with true stories like the one about a ghetto life turned around to win souls for Christ. Undoubtedly, one of the best hip-hop joints of this or any year.