Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Da'T.R.U.T.H.'s fourth album finds him already crowned as America's second most commercially successful Christian hip-hop artist. There's a certain irony that a white man in his mid-forties remains the best selling Christian hip-hopper but Toby Mac's popularity is undeniable. Da'T.R.U.T.H. presents a mini concept album with the first half of these songs looking back at human and Bible history for spiritual lessons to be learnt. And then in the second half he gets to apply the lessons into modern life in order to give listeners a bigger picture of the universe! And it sort of works! No doubting the quality of the songs and the shiny state of the guest appearances which range from Tye Tribbett and Kirk Franklin to fellow rappers Trip Lee and J.R. to London talent like producer GP. Musically it ranges from anthemic songs like "My President" complete with kiddy chorus. I like the melody of "You Made" with its pitch shifting vocal lines. "Great Wall" looks at racial disharmony and has a great vocal from Freddy Washington. The album wraps with the funky groove of "Suitcase" leaving the listener on a high. Da'T.R.U.T.H. is presented as the big hope of Christian hip-hop mixing spiritual integrity, strong Bible-based messages and an adventurous approach to music and on the strength of this, I wouldn't disagree.

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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