Reviewed by Andy Cooper

Urban D (Disciple) is a preacher and pastor form Tampa, Florida, and runs a church called Crossover, which is immersed in hip-hop culture and urban mission. They even have a skate park and graffiti wall in the church grounds. That's relevant because Urban D's music is true to where he's come from and to where he's heading. This hip-hop album is basically preaching at its most creative, poetic, lyrical and stirring (in a good sense). Some tracks are aimed at encouraging church goers to mission, some are testimonial stories of life for encouraging faith in believers and non-believers alike, and some are basically Bible stories with a modern perspective. The musical foundation for these topics is varied and interesting, drawing influences from Latin, Caribbean, rock and other styles and giving them all an urban hip-hop twist. It is the more commercial and accessible face of hip-hop without watering down the rhymes and essence of the genre. Urban D has many guests rapping with him, providing yet more variety. Think of your favourite mainstream rap artist, and there's most likely at least one track here of a similar style and quality. Both the music and the content are truly uplifting.

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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