Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Returning from Nashville earlier in the year, Tony Cummings asked me to name the hottest band that I'd seen out there and it was always going to be this sibling trio. Souljahz have grown since their independent release to create a sumptuous style of hip hop and R&B that incorporates elements of pop and rock so that occasionally (check out "Let Go") this sounds like Kravitz but more often it's just simply delicious. 'The Fault Is History' has to be one of the key releases of 2002 and its broad musical landscape only proves the versatility of the group. Beyond the music, Souljahz are big on message, choosing to filter their Gospel message through social observations. And they're creative while they do that so guest poet Vejer speaks about issues like racism and poverty in provocative fashion and the band follow through with powerful message songs like "Colour Hate" and "Poor Man" which add a broader dimension to the band's impact. If the Gospel is about treating the causes of sin and addressing the consequences of sin then Souljahz are one of the most radical Christian bands around. Unashamedly inspirational, they talk about sexual purity in "True Love Waits" and self esteem in "Same Ol' Game" and yet songs like "Reflection" and "Worship" capture an intimacy of relationship with God. Here's a band who like to have it all ways! Produced by Tonex who has captured the essence of the group and yet has added an edge to their sound without losing the catchiness of the songs, when you slap it in your stereo, it's like the sound of sunny California pouring from the speakers. Totally cool!

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