Gospel Rap
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
A review of the Cross Movement's album Higher Definition reveals several things about the gospel and how people receive it. The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing.
I'll let the RapReview review speak for itself...
Not to glorify the Cross Movement, but this review is a case in point about how the gospel can offend. Staying true to the gospel can also (and often does) means being shunned by the world.
I'll let the RapReview review speak for itself...
Their album "Higher Definition" contains all the elements of a good Hip-Hop album, shedding the label of Gospel rap in style, music, concepts, and emceeing.
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The only thing separating Cross Movement from any other Hip-Hop artist is the topic matter as the beats would fit in with any current radio play list.
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The only problem with the crew, and what ultimately prevents them from getting even more praise is the topic matter. Some will say that it isn't right to judge an artist based on what they choose to talk about, but religion is central to many people's lives. Because of this it begs to be held to a different standard. You don't have to be a gangsta to appreciate gangsta rap, and you don't necessarily get offended when a rapper says you aren't gangsta for whatever reason. But when religion is involved the attack can be very personal. Even if you do happen to believe in the same God as Cross Movement does, chances are you don't meet their high moral standards and they make sure to let you know. They may not mean to come off as judgmental, but it happens on almost every track.
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With emcees who are captivating and probably have an interesting life to tell us about, it's a shame Cross Movement has to devote itself to Gospel rap.
But the prerequisite of accepting a Christian God and following only one faith ultimately alienates not only non-Christians, but also those who, though they are concerned with living their lives right, would rather worship and believe on their own terms and time.
Don't get it wrong, "Higher Definition" is a good record, but its overbearing religious theme may make you feel like you're listening to a Jehovah's Witness and not Hip-Hop artists.
Music Vibes: 6 of 10 Lyric Vibes: 6 of 10 TOTAL Vibes: 6 of 10
From http://www.rapreviews.com/archive/2004_12_higherdef.html
Not to glorify the Cross Movement, but this review is a case in point about how the gospel can offend. Staying true to the gospel can also (and often does) means being shunned by the world.
The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever
1 John 2:17
