Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Erica describes herself in two words: "pretty" and "radical", which became the title of her first EP. After being given a Christian hip-hop accolade in 2017 and having worked with a huge range of well-known Christian hip-hop artists, Erica is just getting started. "Seek First" is an incredible jazz-rap-R&B live sounding project with Erica's unique and soulful voice reaching out of the album and into your heart as she opens up and reveals her heart and struggles. In "The Conversation" she shares her personal experiences in and out of the industry with introspectiveness and a passionate energy, revealing that "They want the perfect album; they want the perfect artist; but only The Creator can define what perfect art is." In "Whirlwind" we're treated to Erica's impressive singing ability as she sings from the depths of her heart to God - then switching to rap as God speaks his love back. "Talks With Loneliness" is a sweet piece of hip-hop/R&B fusion as the rapper/singer pours out her soul but even out of her loneliness looks to God who is "so worth loving". This love is a theme continued in "Forever". In the "Outro" the fire that burns in Erica's belly comes to the fore as she declares "oh yeah we're quick to sell 'em God, but never teach 'em how to put him first." This is a God-message that needs to be heard and Erica Mason is the perfect mouthpiece to make it happen.

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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