Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Tonex marks his return to recording after a much publicised fall out with the industry and offers a mix of R&B, a nod towards hip-hop, soul, dance and even some rock fusion, bringing together a polished and creative mix that expresses Tonex's musical diversity. As you'd expect, the album is brilliantly produced and seems to sit in two musical genres through the album (eg, ballad / dance). We kick off with a summery and grooving lead track, "Fiyah", with a contemporary, horn-filled and punchy edge. Throughout the album, Tonex delivers some top rate vocals, as in the pumping "Bring It" or high pitched excellence of "Glor3x". There are clearly a number of influences to Tonex, as displayed in the smooth and downtempo dance edge of "Joy" (with Michael Jackson undertones), the laid back "Blend" and the soulful late '90s ballad style of "Cool With U" (a musical style continued on other tracks on the album) as he checks and balances what he does with God's will for his life. The dance-infused "When I Call" (with a slight Kanye West, "Stronger" edge) is a look at how we know that God will answer when we call. "Sneeze" is another dancy track with a serious edge as we learn from Tonex's past and hear his desire to express what the Lord has done for him. We end with the grooving "F@ce Down" with a spiritual theme of keeping humble before the Lord, crucifying the flesh and staying face down before God. TBizzy guests on the mic. A fine return.

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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