Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Regular Cross Rhythms listeners will be familiar with Michigan's James Gardin and this eight track mini-album is accurately described as "James discovering a multitude of grooves and pockets that are as varied and vibrant as his unique fashion sense." 'Sweet Jesus' is filled with funky, fresh and underground sounds underpinned by lyrical flows from Gardin over perfectly produced beats from TheyCallMeHeat. If you need a hip-hop pick-me-up there's no better place to start than the fun, grooving and smooth "Chitown Boogie" (the single being a Cross Rhythms radio hit) with its slightly old skool vibe. Gardin mixes up styles with different rap flows and rap singing such as in the challenging end track "Cruise Control" and the rolling "Joy" (another CR radio hit) with Gardin getting joy in letting his light shine. "Shaky Ground" sees James bringing rap preaching to the record in a Negro spiritual vibe, perfectly matched by the looped guitar and breaks from TheyCallMeHeat. "Stained Glass" is an important track as Gardin highlights the importance of keeping his soul and body clean and healthy. If you're looking for a body and soul massage, this is just what you need.

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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