5 comments about Mezzamorphis.

1. Christian music is usually either artistically or theologically shallow; this album is neither. Thoughtful and deep lyrics on top of layers of artful and musical rock make this one of the best Christian CD's I've ever heard. Have had it 4 years, and still think it rates in the top 5 Christian albums ever.
   
   (my other 4 are Smalltown Poets "Listen Closely", The Waiting "Blue Belly Sky", Rich Mullins "Liturgy, Legacy", and Mark Heard "High Noon", with a close 6th to Bruce Cockburn "Dancing in the Dragon's Jaws")



2. i normally do not listen to christian music, i usually like the rock stuff, prodigy, nine inch nails lords of acid, ect. but picked it up one day through one of my sister's cds and I thought this cd was unbelievable, everything from the vocals, and the background it is that good



3. What a stunner this album is. This one seemed to really put the cat among the pigeons regards fan reaction. Some consider it a little industrial, a little too hard-edged in terms of musical content. For me, it's trademark Delirious; daring, bold, passionate and unrelenting. This was Delirious coming off their "could we be pop stars?" trip, and many tracks here are deliberately single-length and as radio-sounding as possible. I consider this to hold Delirious back from their truly magical moments, found on more obviously worshipful recordings. Still, the album is consistent and coherant and flows well.

   Stand-out tracks for me are the 'Mezzanine Floor', 'Bliss' (despite the tacky chorus and the somewhat dubious logic of having "really lived" even if they're completely wrong about their faith), and 'It's OK', which was released as a UK mainstream single and did relatively well considering a complete wall of radio silence. 'Gravity' tries a little too hard and the remix of the classic 'Deeper' takes away from how great it first sounded on 'King of Fools', but this album is a keeper and well worthy of my collection.




4. Too often Christian music is done wrong. Horribly wrong. Either it's seen as a way to get started in the music industry("just write a song a slap 'Jesus' on the end") or it's used as an excuse for mediocrity.

   Delirious thankfully erased this notion of mine O so many years ago. While they had written some very good worship music with Cutting Edge, no one could have seen Mezzamorphis coming. The melodies are wonderfully put together; and the lyrics have a surprising habit of touching me, even after all these years. Too good to pass up.




5. There's not much out there in the way of explicitly Christian punk rock, so when you see a picture of this band, with its prominent leather, post-Rotten hairdos and creative facial hair, and compare the image to the lyrics, which on this album revolve around the central idea of reaching heaven (with a note to fans explaining why the word "hell" was used on one song), you might be excused for thinking that someone's finally done the unthinkable. But in fact, Delirious? isn't really a punk band at all. It's basically a pop group with occasionally extra-crunchy guitars. Luckily, it's a mighty fine pop group; between Martin Smith's powerful and gutsy voice and the songs' indelible hooks, Delirious? ends up sounding at times like a more specifically ideological Crowded House (as on "Follow" and the quietly lovely "It's OK"), and at others like a more intelligent Duran Duran ("Bliss"). The dogma is front and center; Smith isn't afraid to sing a line like "If I'm right then you are wrong" and, if that offends you, ask yourself whether you get offended by Consolidated or Rage Against the Machine. At least this band admits the possibility that it could be wrong. And it does so with hooks.

5 comments about Welcome To The Freak Show: DC Talk Live In Concert.

1. This album now seems so dated, but i remeber when it came out that it was just chocked full of energy. The guys really know how to jam and this was a great capturing of their energy. The cover of Jesus is just alright is one of their best tunes.



2. The music of DC Talk is timeless. I bought this as a gift for my friend and he is thoroughly enjoying it. Brings us back to our childhood.



3. I absolutely love it, I love the remix of the beatles "help" and REM's it's the end of the world, and the songs are right wonderful



4. "Welcome to the Freak Show"
   by DcTalk
   Reviewed by Logan Clements
   
   
   This CD is called "Welcome to the Freak Show." The band playing it is DcTalk. They are pretty well known. There are no special features on this CD.
   This CD was very good. The date it was released on was August 26, 1997. The current value is $16.98. The rating is 4.5 out of ten as of Monday 4/4/05. The chart rating as of Monday 4/4/05 is #47,539 in music. The label is a forefront/ emd.
   This CD shows that evolution is not true. When I first listened to this CD, I thought it was cool because it was fast music and I like fast music. After listening thoroughly it somehow calms me down and kind of humbles me to what I have for a while.
   There are 14 good tracks on this CD. The names of them are help, so help me go, love is a verb, and like it love it need it. Some others are colored people, Jesus is still all right, and what if I stumble?. A few others are In the light, mind's eye, It's the end of the world as we know it, Day by Day, walls, time is..., and Jesus Freak. My favorite tracks are Jesus Freak, Colored people, and love is a verb. I like these because they are fast and somehow calm me down.
   There are two bad tracks on this CD. One is Alas my love. Another is Hardway. These songs are slow and kind of weird after all the fast ones.
   There are some unusual parts, like when they introduce the band and have them play solos. There are no hidden tracks on this CD.
   My rating is 4.5 out of 5. The people that would like this CD are christens who like rock music. The type of music is christen rock. The fans will be happy because it's the best of DcTalk.
   That's what I think about this CD, "Welcome to the Freak Show'.



5. This album is awesome. Welcome to the Freak Show combines a lot of dc Talk's greatest hits in a live recording. My favorite song on this album is "What if I Stumble." Most live albums crank up the volume on the crowd noises and it gets annoying after the first three songs. In this album the crowd noise adds to it. You actually get the full experience. If you enjoy this album I would check out Smalltown poets and Audio Adrenaline.

3 comments about Welcome to the Freak Show.

1. This wonderful concert/documentary film, simply put, extremely impressive. Despite some grain from some camera angles, an intentional effect, the image is strong with rich colors, and the sound is a strong stereo signal (I'd rather have a great stereo sound than a crummy 5.1 mix). DC Talk is amazing in the studio, and here they proved that they were even more electric on the stage. Check out the trio's great rendition of the Beatles' "Help" that opened the show, followed by their original, crunchy "So Help Me God." Great energy with sweaty, gritty performances that might make many think this is a secular band. DC Talk, at least on their last three records (Free At Last, Jesus Freak and Supernatural) proved they could run with any secular band, and "Welcome To The Freak Show," with its tremendous vocal harmonies, stunning musicianship (bassist Otto Price never fails to deliver the goods) and message that God is our priority all make this video a great thing to experience over and over again. Also included are DC Talk's music videos for "Jesus Freak" (haunting), "Colored People" (touching) and "Between You and Me" (almost a cliffhanger). Pick this DVD up now, along with DC Talk's "Supernatural Experience" DVD which chronicled the band's 1999 tour, which had as many sparks as this 1996 tour did.



2. if u say "dc Talk"....u can say the best christian band ever...as i first listen 2 them i couldn't believe it...a new style in christian music combined with nirvana's grunge, new rock guitar...dc Talk has it all...Welcome 2 The Freak Show can show u that very easy...the best concert that i ever saw....great music , lyrics & great atmosphere.....



3. I love this video!!!!I love dc Talk!!! I love GOD!!!! This video is so awesome. It doesn't only have real live footage of dc Talk live in concert, but it also has some (short) interviews with Kevin, Toby and Mike. I can't stop watching it!! My mom just about goes crazy if she heres another dc Talk song, this video is all I play in the V.C.R. I love it, you should love it, and you should buy this tape (NOW!!!) WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR??? I guess you just don't know how great this video really is. All of the songs off of their cd *Jesus Freak* are on it, and some songs off of their old albums!! And even a song from the *beatles - HELP* Buy It, Love It, And Yes You Need It Right Away!!!

5 comments about Holy Culture.

1. These dudes keep it hot with every release. This is THE cd that finally made me see that Gospel Rap can sound better than Non-Gospel Rap. This Dudes Can Actually Rhyme, the production is Outstanding. I was like "What?" Their content is also very Christian! Many so-called Christian Rappers out there compromise their message to the point that you can't tell it's Christian anymore. Not The Case Here! Somehow, they manage to make scripture sound cool. Don't know how they do it man! Talented group of guys here. You will hear the name Jesus, You will Hear scripture, you will love it! Definitely worth the purchase.



2. I'm a middle aged person with very discriminating taste, in 2000
   I pretty much stopped listening to any music that was not gospel
   because nothing else spoke to my heart or soul.....until CM. They are without a doubt creative wordsmiths. I LOVE this treasure from God. Tight beats, great hooks, Truth ya'll!! the production is professional and simply blessed. I'm BUYING everything I can find from Crossmovement. I share it with my grandchildren and feel good not ashamed. HHH has blessed my life.
   
   GOD DOES ALL THINGS WELL.



3. first off the 1st 3 CM cds wer good this holy culture has really changed inso many ways ther lyrics aint the same it jus dint get to me and da sound was so middle eastern that the hindu community wood stair at me as I cruzed down da blvd and all da songs almost sound same,,,aking evry track sound like track one..track number 13 i think it was made me wana gran one of those drsses that show ur belly button..umm i dunno wat its really called..theres an arabic name for it as i recall..well anyways it made me wana grab on of those and belly dance the crap outta myself...the only problem was i had too much hair on my stomach..and i was allergic to those cleopatra wax patches..yeah i know im pretty hair for a 13 year old (wink) (wink)..well anyways..i was so bored of the songs that i i had to do sumthn stupid..so that wat i did i belly danced...thas all i can say about this cd..it has good messaages..but those anoying middle eastern idle worshiping style rythm got in the way...turining my attention to my groovy moving hindi hips..they moved by themselves by the way..all becuz of track 13... well anyways im glad i dindt buy it..i jus boorwoed it from my freind..i set the settings at 4x speed..and it burned good qualtiy..i dindt need to go to the store to have a cd all i did was burn it in the comfort of my own home...im thinking of starting a business..where u burn cd's then go out into the streets and sell em...i dunt know if thats illegal yet...well i unno..ill jus try it and see what happens, well anyways its time to end this review..jus take it from me..if u wana buy this dont..jus burn it or ask somebody to copy it from you..ohh i forgot also theres a whole range of the songs on shareaza and zpoc, ok..well i have to go becuz im buzzy burning..2pacs greatest hits..and shakiras new album i dunt know the title..the one where shes holding a baby in the cover...anyways ill be writing a review soon on black eyed peas monkey business...wich i burned about 9 copies and sold em..great money..ok amazon heres ur review...peace out



4. This is a really sweet cd that I recommend that anyone should listen to. It is a positive influence on the Urban Culture that really reflects the word of God. One of my favorite tracks is "Closer to You" which really reflects that hearts desire to be closer in God. All of their tracks really shows the Word that can really affect our society. It has many good lyrics and a really tight hip hop beat.They are really good leaders that spread the Word of God through their Holy hip hop Culture.
   
   Other recommended Artists
   Grits
   Gospel Gangstaz
   Prime Minister
   Pettidee



5. First, I want to clarify that this review is based on both mine and my 11-yr-old's view. Though he pretty much likes all of the songs on this album, Tracks 2, 7, 9, 10, 15 and 19 are his favorites. As a parent, I like this group because ALL their songs actually sing/rap about the Lord. My personal favorites are #15 (Closer To You) and #2 (When I Flow...It's Gospel).
   
   With 20+ tracks you will definitely get your money's worth!!

5 comments about Nu Thang.

1. This follow-up to the 1989 debut is slightly better, But still pales in comparison to DC Talk's later efforts. A lot of tbe songs on here are very silly and sound very outdated in many cases. But, There are a few positives about this cd. ''Walls'', ''No More'', and ''Talk It Out'' are the only reccomendable songs on here. If you like cheesy 80's and early 90's rap music, This cd is for you. If not, Go buy a Gospel Gangstaz cd or a Lecrae cd instead. Oh, And that classic that i said this album proceeded is the next DC Talk album, Free At Last. Hope the review helped. Be blessed



2. Purchased for my 7 year old boy. Rap and Hip Hop, no profanity and possitive message. These are Christian artists so the message is one of love and acceptance delivered in a rap and hip hop format. My boy loves it and with pleasant hoooks and melodies mixed in I don't mind it either.



3. I really like this cd. Although dc talk has changed alot with free at last, this cd is not all that bad. I beg you to try it.



4. Hearing this album now reminds me of the sound of 'The Fresh Prince' Will Smith back when he was still paired up with DJ Jazzy Jeff. It's very pop-friendly hip-hop employing the trappings probably more so than being a legit "rap" album. If you keep that in mind, then it's aging no worse than other pop-rap of the time. The group proclaimed their sound as "rap, rock, and soul": with Toby "M.C. Swirl" McKeehan supplying the rap, and Kevin "K-Max" Smith and Michael "Comfy" Tait the rock and soul textures. The rock is decidedly the lesser third of the equation, really only coming to the fore on "Walls" and "No More".
   
   HIGHLIGHTS:
   For the most part, it's the 'singles' that got airplay on the very few stations programming Christian rock and rap at the time that fare best here. "He Works" is McKeehan's simple assertion that Christianity is a workable everyday philosophy. ("He's working on my walk/I said He Works/He's working on my talk") "Nu Thang"'s title track actually has a pretty good shuffling rhythm once you get past the jokey intro (a phoney televangelist sounding guy that addresses the 'young people' presumably listening to the disc). "I Luv Rap Music" is an ironic title since it is NOT rap music (it sounds more like a New Kids on the Block tune) but its gentle sway is difficult to resist and you have to smile when, having brought his mom to the local rap concert, she asks 'How they makin' music when there ain't no band?'. "No More" is somewhat reminiscent of Run DMC's early rap/rock combinations as the group proclaims "No/more/Givin' in/No more givin' in to this thing we call sin". Someone once said that Sunday morning in church is the most segregrated time in America and "Walls", replete with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. samples, addresses this, pointing out the necessity of looking past the racial divide and unifying around Christ. ("We're together on Earth/We'll be together above..")
   
   LOWS:
   "Talk it Out" is the group's answerback to "Parents Just Don't Understand" (sez Toby "That's ill, I know they can") but it's a little too saccharine. "Children Can Live Without It" is a blunt pro-life song but its sentiment has been said so many times by other artists in more compelling ways. (Steve Taylor's "Baby Doe" may be the pre-eminent tune for the topic.)
   
   BOTTOM LINE:
   Definitely not an essential album for the modern-day listener but enjoyable for the nostalgia. Fans of modern day Christian rappers like John Reuben, Cross Movement, and Grits will get a history lesson in how cloistered Christian music once was (This was "cutting edge" for CCM back in its day. Only D-Boy and SFC were rawer rap at the time.) If you're just dipping your toes into the band, get FREE AT LAST instead.



5. During my last year in high school, I loved this album. It even made me like rap, at least for a few years. Those who know me, know how shocking that statement is!
   
   My love for rap basically started and ended with this album. Actually, I hate pretty much all other kinds of rap, except for this album.
   
   This album was the breakthrough, which made rap music cross over to the Christian sub-culture. Since this is basically the only rap album in the world that I have ever really liked, that should tell you how good it is.
   
   Give it a try. Even if you hate rap, I predict you will make a single exception for this album.

5 comments about Christmas Is Jesus.

1. I would say that this is one of the greatest Christmas CDs! The songs are very inspirational and moving!



2. For his 1995 Christmas release, Bryan Duncan arranged many classic and almost classic songs to fit his normal style. The result is a CD that sounds different enough to be enjoyed when the familiar Christmas sounds are feeling old. It combines familiar, lesser known traditional, and new songs on a fresh way.

   For example, the CD starts off with the lesser recorded "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day." Here it becomes a moving ballad.

   Next up is an upbeat pop rendition of "Angels We Have Heard on High." "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing" is presented later in the same vein.

   "What Child is This?" is combined with the hymn "What Wondrous Love is This?" for an interesting combination I had never thought of before but love.

   The two new songs are "Christmas is Jesus" and "The Form of Man." While I'm not too fond of the first one, I love the second and listen to it plenty of times during December as I, too, wonder at the thought of God becoming man.

   Toward the end of the CD, he provides a few secular Christmas songs. His version of "Grown-Up Christmas List" is almost as good as Amy Grant's (still my favorite). After the almost requisite "The Christmas Song," the CD closes with "Please Come Home for Christmas." I'd never heard this song before, but I really find myself singing along with this bluesy pop song.

   If you want a CD that will freshen up your Christmas music collection this is it. I've enjoyed it for a number of years.




3. I don't buy a lot of music because I'm pretty picky about what I like. This one is one of my top six favorites Christmas CD's and all six of those are so close to number one that I can't really decide which I like most.
   So, with that said, I can't imagine NOT having this CD around at Christmas time. I won't go on with a lot of details other than to say that besides myself, I don't know anyone else who has this CD that don't like it. Yes, some songs are better than others but there are NO bad cuts here.



4. This has to be the best Christmas CD I own. Most of Bryan Duncan's music is very upbeat, high-energy (he screams a lot) but this CD is more quiet and reflective. At the same time, it's not dull. A choir in the background on most of the songs makes you feel like you're at a live Christmas concert. All the old songs sound fresh, while the new ones are instant classics. If you only get one Christmas album this year, buy this one!



5. I've purchased a few Bryan Duncan CDs and I haven't been disappointed yet. This Christmas album is no exception... it's wonderful! Bryan's incredible voice delivers on these traditional and new Christmas songs. I especially love the title song 'Christmas is Jesus', which I first heard a couple of years ago on a Christian radio station... the poignant lyrics and melody are absolutely beautiful. I highly recommend this recording to your Christmas music collection.

5 comments about Pronounced Toe-Nay.

1. This album is one of the best Ive ever owned. To me, its Grammy worthy. I first saw Tonex on a Gospel Awards show, his performance was like a Prince/Micheal Jackson thing. GOspel music was still tripping of Kirk Franklin so I knew they werent ready for Tonex! But I instantly fell in love with him as an artist was anxiously awaited the released of this album. Its been about 10 years since I bought it and I still listen to it all the time I love it!!! Tonex's vocals are ridiculous!!RIDICULOUS!! No man that i've heard sing can touch his octaves and rips and runs. Plus he can dance and he's a preacher?! This album is genius, and you can definitely hear his legendary influences in the album. Its separated by genre which is unique. My favorite sections are his Futuristic with songs like "Trinity", Funk "Personal Jesus" all the songs in his Jazz section and the whole mellow grooves section. I have purchased every Tonex album following this. ITS definitely worth every penny you spend.



2. This is an unbelieveable album. It is a pleasureable album to listen to. There is a song in there for everyone to listen to. Good Job!!!!



3. One of the most heralded as well as controversial albums of the year 2000, Tonex's first major label release entitled "Pronounced Toe-Nay" is more like a modern-day melodrama of Tonex's life story. Originally sold on the now-defunct local label Rescue Records in 1997, the Jive/Verity Records re-release actually omits two songs that was on its previous version. Still, the popularity of this album solidified Tonex's reputation as the new "bad boy" of Gospel music. The album is a classic and tackles issues in a way that most gospel albums of that era failed to do so. I received a copy of this album on my 18th birthday and for an entire year, this album pierced me so deeply and even helped me discover my purpose in life with the strength of its lyrical content. Songs like, "Taxi," "Why," "As I Played," "Real With U," and "Waiting" all ministered to me at a time when I needed relief from the stresses of being a young Christian. Moreover, the spirit-filled power of "Cry No More" (also featured on the movie, "Prison Song" starring Q-Tip & Mary J. Blige) and "Restoration," which samples an interpolation of Andrae Crouch's "Soon & Very Soon," will inspire any believer to return to their place in God. Not only are the messages convincing, but the album also proves to be absolutely entertaining. His style, as I have stated before, is timeless and ultimately incomparable. "U Send Me" is unlike anything I have ever heard before. The sound of it is like a jambalaya of Hip-Hop & R&B fused with synthesized portions that give the song its Dance & Techno flavor. "The Good Song" sounds like a Stevie Wonder song with its clavichord-based musical structure and its stirring lesson of unity. "Personal Jesus" showcases his exceptional ability to vocalize and offer exhortation through song. Overall, this is a glorious work of art that possesses an in-your-face, hard-core take on what it means to be radical for Christ.



4. It is almost impossible to believe that someone could record a WHOLE album in their BASEMENT and have it come out this banging. After a listen to the track "The Good Song", you'll understand what I'm talking about. But as always, Tonex never ceases to amaze with his versatility, his vision, his multiple talents, his music, his voice, his dress, everything. The first two tracks I heard from this LP were "Personal Jesus" and "Make Me Right". I had only heard them in passing and I didn't catch on to the Tonex vibe yet. After hearing those two songs I figured he was just a gospel artist trying to copy the neo-soul sound. Yes people, I was a lost soul at one time. But I was converted!
   
   I heard O2 (Tonex's follow-up LP to this one) first and was literally blown away by that album, so I decided to listen to this one and while it's not as good as O2, it's still a phenomenal debut. The aforementioned track "The Good Song", is one of the best tracks on the album, and one of the best songs I have ever heard period! For all neo-soultologists like myself, the songs "Taxi", "Waiting", "As I Played" and "Why" are really soothing to the ear, and I believe it could rival the sounds of say, D'Angelo maybe? Or maybe it's just me. But the soul/jazz section is really good, especially "Taxi", which is speaking about falling into sin via fornication.
   
   The hip hop flavored tracks aren't bad themselves, however Tonex is one of those few people who rap and sing equally well. That's an impressive feat to pull off. The beat on "U Send Me", is really funky. I love it. And "P.T. 2001", that one is intense. I think he should take all these gospel hip hop artists who are struggling and help em out because it seems like he knows good hip hop when he hears it. Other notable tracks are "Restoration", "Cry No More", and "One Good Reason", in which Big J says "Pull yo pants up, this is a church!!!" I love that.
   
   Oh yeah, and there is a song called "Jambo" that got left off of the re-release of this album because it couldn't get sample clearance in time. You can find the song on the net. I got it off Kazaa. It's a hot song, trust me.



5. Praise the Lord, Tonex!!!!
   
   I really love the CD but, their is one thing
   that really upset me. On the track Make Me Right, why is that song very very short!! I really love that song!! Please, Please, Make It Longer!!!I would very much appreciate it. Thank you. God Bless.
   
   Sis.Vanessa, Michigan

No comments about Citizens Activ.

5 comments about Renovating->Diverse City.

1. First off he throws down a song unlike any Christian artist. I am new to the Tobymac music this year and can tell you I love it. His sound/genre seems to change depending on the song.
   
   Like most I am skeptical to buy remix cds. They are most usually not good. This one is really really good, even better than his other remix cd.



2. This is deffinetly a Extreme Makeover- CD Edition. ;) It's a great TobyMac CD and if you liked anything you've heard from TobyMac or DC Talk before, you'll be sure to enjoy this CD. I would write more, but other reviewers have explained it pretty well already. :)



3. Upbeat and exciting. A must have for your mp3 player, especially for runners. Great dance music.



4. A few years ago in 2001, the members of dc Talk decided to go solo, which had Toby Mckeehan (p.k.a. TobyMac) releasing his scarily popular debut album "Momentum". The popularity seemed to go over like a wave...suddenly, everyone was in love with it. The next year, it was decided that "RE:mix Momentum" would be released; an album with remixes of almost all the songs from "Momentum". Later in 2004, Toby returned with the absolutely brilliant "Welcome To Diverse City", which was getting rave reviews and huge popularity (it's even better than Momentum, if that's possible). After a while, many fans (including myself) automatically began to think, "so, what about "Diverse City" remixes?". Obviasly, our expectations have been heard, and here we have "Renovating Diverse City". Well, let's be ready to see the how the music has been managed...
   
   The Slam (David Wyatt): To my surprise, I actually really like this! It's not as loud/heavy as the original, but it's very nice! It has some very nice background vocals and piano. I honestly NEVER would have thought "The Slam" could have fallen under the category of "almost beautiful", but I guess that's what remixes are about; being different.
   
   Getaway Car (Chris Stevens): For some reason, I never was really a huge fan of this song. I didn't even like this remix at first, but now when I think about it, I like it a lot better than the original! In some places, it's a bit heavier than the original, and in other places, a bit smoother. Not a huge stand-out track, but good enough for me.
   
   Catchafire (Matt Bronleewe): I have always been a major fan of this song. I was so sure that this remix was going to be awful (which tends to happen on a lot of my favorite songs), but I guess it's pretty good! It has more of a dancable beat, and it has cool background effects. In some places the beat begins to remind me of Gwen Stefani's hit single "Rich Girl".
   
   Burn For You (Chris Stevens): Alright, I really love this! I love the background vocals and the new sounds. This remix gives the song a much more mysterious feel, but it's still brilliant! I recommend this one. Very excellent! The album is starting to get much better now! Yep, it's on!
   
   Hey Now (David Wyatt): This one is pretty excellent, in my opinion! The sound is very fun and bright. It's becoming hard for me to decide if I prefer the remix or the original.
   
   Gone (Tedd T): I was actually pretty afraid this one would turn out pretty bad, and I'm afraid I was right. It has more of a Hip-Hop/Reggae feel. The idea is nice, but it didn't seem to work out. It can't touch the original. This is the only let down after the album gets good. But anyway, try the original instead.
   
   Diverse City (Tedd T): I already loved the original, but I love the remix much better! It's VERY fun and dancable. It has much more of an old disco feel. This is a perfect pick-up after the previous track was a bit of a let-down. As far as I can tell, the CD is on again! I may have to warn you that this song is very addictive!
   
   Ill-M-I (Doubledutch): To tell the truth, I've never really liked this song. It was a bit to weird for my taste. But the remix has given it a much better sound and feel! I'm liking it a lot!
   
   Phenomenon (Max Hsu): In my opinion, the original and the remix are almost equally good. I like the way they made this version a bit faster and a bit more rocked out. The bass sounds awesome, the guitars are way cool, and the background vocals sound great (they sound like they're done by Kierra Kiki Sheard). As cool as this one is, I still think the original is the most phenomenal (no pun intended).
   
   Atmosphere (Victor "Pete" Oquendo): Well, this is kind of good, though I'm afraid it just can't touch the original. It's nice and all, but it just doesn't have that same "wow" effect. It's alright, but I highly recommend going for the original.
   
   Burn For You (math remix - bonus track): This one sounds a bit more like the original. It's very good, and it turns the CD back on just in time for the end. However, I like the other remix just a little better.
   
   So, did the songs find their way into the hands of the right remixers? Mostly yes, but just a little bit of no. I actually have enjoyed this album very much, and might even like to buy sometime. Here's my number 1 opinion: Not as good as "Welcome To Diverse City", but better than the "Momentum" remixes.



5. i love this music!!! It has a very good beat, and good lyrics.
   i want this CD!

5 comments about Spiritual Minded.

1. In my book, a 5 star album is a 5 star album. Just because it may not be accepted by the masses, and have sale success, doesn't mean it's not 5 stars. It angers me that people hate on this just because he tried something new, and because he covers topics that they don't agree with.
   
   Though not my favorite KRS album, this is definately up there. I love lyrics that are passionate and spirtualy uplifting ... which is what I get out of these lyrics. Alot of people waste their own lifes away, investing their time in pleasure, and selfishness, and it's albums like this that'll shake those people up, and hopefully cause them to question themselves, on why their really here. Obviously, KRS was aware that not everyone was going to accept this, and I give him so much props for looking past that, and doing what he felt he must. He blends Gospel with Hip Hop in such a wonderful way, that I feel so glad I took my chances and bought this even though I heard nothing off it beforehand.
   
   Usually I reccomend everything I do a review on, but this is the first that I don't completely reccomend. It's not for everyone. If you're a spiritual individual, and/or a big KRS ONE fan, and want to increase your jones - look no further. If your a casual KRS fan, I reccomend some of his earlier albums before this, once you've done so, then check this out. You may like it. If you're a closed minded individual, and get uncomfortable when someone covers topics that you don't understand, or agree with - I would look past this. KRS obviously didn't make this album for people like you. WORD!



2. Okay, first of all, I love this album. I will get into the reasons why in a moment, but first let me address some of the criticism from my fellow reviewers, starting with the following:
   
   "A wise man once said..., November 6, 2003
   By "essence_uk"
   
   You're still a slave, look at how you behave
   Debatin' on where and when and how and what Massa gave
   You wanna know how we screwed up from the beginning?
   We accepted our opressor's religion
   So in the case of slavery it ain't hard
   Because it's right in the eyes of THEIR God"
   
   This is a reference to KRS's song Higher Level, off of Return of the Boom Bap. My comment to that review:
   
   "You forgot the rest of the verse:
   
   'Where is our God, the God that represents us?
   The God that looks like me, the God that I can trust?
   A God of peace and love, not mass hysteria
   I don't want a God that blesses America
   I could never really vote for the devil
   Let me take you to a higher level...'
   
   The song is a condemnation of the subversive effects politics and economics have on religion, not a condemnation of religion."
   
   KRS has always been about spirituality, not religion. Note the name of the album is not Religiously Minded. There is nothing on this album that is contradictory with what he has stated in the past.
   
   The next reviewer up for review:
   
   "KRS ONE is NOT a Chrisitan, December 27, 2005
   By Roger P. Reed
   
   This is just a warning to anyone who may actually be thinking about buying this album. KRS ONE is not a Christian, He did this CD to dupe actual Christians into listening to what his beliefs are. If you didn't catch it, on the cover of the CD it says Temple of Hip Hop.. and not Temple of God, Hip Hop is a registered religion in which he is a Father/Co-Founder of along with Afrika Bambatta. They are leaders of the Black Muslims also known as the 5% Nation. This "Nation" actually believes that the Black man is God and the White man is the Devil. So before anyone starts givin props to this man for Gods work, you should find out exactly which or what God he is working for. You're either for Jesus or against him.. I haven't listened to this album completely, but I garauntee that he doesn't Mention the name of Jesus once, in fact in the first track after the intro all he does is brag and boast about how tight KRS One is.. and if he was a Christian then he would be humble.. but Like I said, he's not.. he's a 5% trying to fool the Christian community. And Christians are Christ Followers because Christ is Lord and Savior...
   I hope this Review was helpful to somebody"
   
   My comment for him:
   
   "He's not a 5%er. 5%ers aren't Black Muslims, either. Not to mention that Black Muslims aren't even real Muslims. Shows how much you know. I can tell you didn't listen to the whole CD. I ain't a Christian, but then again, neither was Jesus. He was Jewish. According to your own scripture, Jesus came to fulfill the "Old" Testament (or covenant), not change it. Doesn't sound like he wanted to start a new religion to me. You need to quit putting Jesus in front of God the father (commandment #1). And you need to open your mind to other thoughts and ideas. If your faith is so weak it is threatened by the open discussion of ideas other than your own, you need to call ask this old house, cause your foundation needs repairs. Peace out."
   
   KRS never claims to be a christian anywhere on this album. In fact, he clearly explains his conception of the difference between a christian and a christ-ian (emphasis on the long i in christ) in the song "Ain't Ready". Right in the album liner notes KRS states that only a few will understand the message he is bringing on this CD. Obviously, Roger P. Reed is not one of them.
   
   The rest of the complaints mostly center around the "weak beats" argument. Look, not every song can be produced by DJ Premier. KRS has constantly been bringing new styles to hip hop. Naturally, some of the songs are going to be an experiment for KRS. This whole album is experimental for KRS, with the use of gospel themes. All this is just fine with me. If every album by him sounded the same as his golden age stuff, everybody would be complaining that his style is stale. I prefer artists to explore themselves and their art and not rehash the same formula that got them started.
   
   That's why I like this album. I like the beats and the rhymes and the production and the message.
   
   Like my main man Yeshua Ben Yosef once said, "Those that can see, see. Those that can hear, hear".
   
   I might add, those that can feel this album, feel it. Those that can't, I pity tha foo'.
   
   Peace, Love, Unity, and I'm out.



3. The first mistake in listening to this album is to look at it as a Christian album. People who are familiar with Kris will get the messages he gives in this album, as they aren't new..this is just the first time that he focused a whole album on a more spiritual bend. Look at it as another KRS album, and nothing more...and on that level it is great. Lyrically it's some of the best writing and flowing he's done since his BDP days. This is KRS-ONE. Not some watered down version, like some of you are thinking.
   
   Unfortunately the appearance of what the album seems to represent is turning off some of his old fans and new ones who may have been expecting a more Christian project, which is too bad.



4. Really KRS-ONE has always had songs on each of his albums before and after this album was released that could be used to make you think about how the realities of life are and how we could get through our problems. But really whenever I have a tough time, I always put this album on in its entirety and it helps clean out my soul, I really gotta give love to what he's done here, don't get scared 'cause it's called gospel rap, it's still real hip-hop for the soul, listen to songs like "So Many Tears", "God Is Spirit", "Welcome To The Temple", "Goodbye", and "Take Your Time", god bless Kris Parker AKA KRS-ONE, I love it how you don't just fill your albums with corny beats and booty shaking songs, you deliver real messages that people need to hear 'cause that's what an mc is a supposed to do, keep on writing the inspirational raps brotha!



5. I have always been a huge fan of Kris Parker. I like what KRS has done. I like what he is doing. I like the fact that he has never looked to what the masses are putting out and has instead tried from day one to promote positivity. Therefore, I find that this effort is laudable in its attempt to bring KRS's spirituality to an audience that has been listening to him for decades.
   
   Unfortunately, it falls flat on its face.
   
   The songs on this album do not manage to live up to the message in the lyrics. KRS is best known for bringing a message to all people by writing about things that could be understood by all people. That aspect of his work is forgotten on this album, and his work comes across as his preaching instead of his teaching. It's almost like he's forgotten the experiences that brought about his spirituality, and instead focuses on the goal without paying attention to the trials and tribulations that got him there.
   
   Musically, the beats are mostly just plain terrible, and feel devoid of warmth or personality. The lyrics feel forced and while his delivery is excellent, the writing is not up to his usual high standard.
   
   Most rappers these days are known for the beats they put together, or the hooks of their songs. Few are known for true lyrical ability. KRS has never before fallen victim to this trap. The reason Criminal Minded, Boom Bap and Necessary did so well was the mix of good writing, excellent delivery and beats that worked with the material presented. Everyone who listens to hip hop can quote lyrics from those albums (and many, if not most, of KRS's other offerings) - the same can't be said with this album, as he didn't find the right mix to present the material.
   
   Pick up this album if you want a complete KRS ONE collection - otherwise, leave it on the shelf.