Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Sho Baraka with his second release brings more heat than a Californian Summer in a challenge to be fearless for God. "Lion's Anthem" is a fist-pumping shout to all the saints working out in the world (the 'jungle') representing Christ. Sho is assertive, passionate and raucous for the fame of God and in stirring us up, spiritually and musically no matter who or where we are - "With every act, make him known" ("Famous"). There are some radio-friendly tracks like the rock hook-based and fearless "Shut Us Down" - "There's nothing they can do to stop what the Lord is doing." Love, ladies and marriage are smoothly addressed in "We Can Be More" - where (like the whole album) Scriptural strength cleverly interplays with contemporary references. The world is in pain and in need of hope and grace. Sho points the world to Christ in the catchy "Mercy On Me". Also worth a mention is "I'm Black" into the military rolling drum-based "It's My Life" in which Sho relives his struggles with life and meeting Christ - "perfection wrapped in flesh" while pain is explored in the powerful, "Half Of Me". Four bonus tracks complete this outstanding hip-hop set.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.

With his second album, Sho Baraka gives us a clear picture of what it looks like to be a ‘Lion’ in this culture and master ones domain for the glory of God. We can only be Lions if we negate the lies that this culture bombards us with and gives us a distorted view of what success is.

Sho collaborates with Lecrae, Jamie Portee, Trip Lee, Tedashii and many more to help remove ‘Lions’ from the endangered species list. With production from Dj Official, Cheese Williams, Alex Medina, and G-Rocc, Lions & Liars promises to be a sonically diverse journey that will encourage believers to be a ‘Lion’ in this culture.