Refreshing!!!

I had the pleasure of meeting Hazakim while in Philadelphia. A conversation that was centered on the Lord and a deep appreciation for Hip hop was so refreshing. As we exchanged life stories I considered it a blessing to have met messianic believers who do hip hop. Refreshing because nothing about their speech and reason for music was for the fad and gimmick of being known. They had a true sense of hip hop history from sound to craft as well as a greater understanding for Christ in the scriptures old and new testament. I love how they openly admitted that their latest album Theophanies was very “niche-y”. They said we purposely wanted to make an album that was an outreach to the non believing Jewish community through lyrics and sound while maintaining our love for true hip hop.

After listening to their latest album Theophanies, which was a surprise gift from them as we parted ways, I felt fortunate. Fortunate that I was able to meet these brothers in the Lord. Fortunate that I could listen to an album that didn’t sound rushed or winged. Fortunate to hear an album that was not made to sell records, be gimmicky or mainstream but is still good. Fortunate to hear an album that speaks of true hip hop and not this watered down, cop cat, candy mess you hear of late in any arena. CAN WE RETIRE THE “T-PAIN” i.e “GEORGE CLINTON” AFFECT PLEASE???!!!! With the hip hop inspirations of EPMD, gangstar, x-clan, pharcyde, wu-tang, etc. artistically this album is truly refreshing. Although this album is not at the top of the charts it’s still worthy of a purchase. All hip hop heads would love and appreciate what these brothers are doing. If candy rap, carbon copy hooks, and trendy unoriginal sounds are what you’re looking for then this album will frustrate you. If you are looking for a sound that is creative (drawing from their Jewish influences), word play that makes you want to hear Eric B and Rakim on the radio and a style/sound that is unique to them then this album is a must have.

This album is not perfect but it’s Christ centered and is a throw back to the essence of true hip hop. I would definitely recommend this album, it’s truly refreshing.