I came across this album when I was browsing the beloved itunes store, which is increasingly seeing more gospel artists blessing its cd listings. I was initially intrigued, having heard some of the new wave of southern style hiphop bursting onto the gospel music scene in the form of rappers such as Lecrae, so I decided (after the previews naturally!) to buy it.

As usual when coming across any new music, the first thing I did was play it in my car…..loud  I was not disappointed. In particular the third track “Gotta Grow” grabbed me and I ended up featuring it in our ‘Speak Life’ January podcast.

Initially not being a huge fan of southern hip hop after seeing what the secular scene had to offer, I must admit that I was sceptical that the new wave of its gospel counterpart was going to be merely an attempt to itch another secular scratch. But after hearing Lecraes ‘after the music stops’, I realised that mostly the artists pioneering this genre were intelligent and skilled lyricists who didn’t make the mistake of sacrificing lyrical content and quality for style.

Trip Lee strongly follows in this vain, with original thought-provoking concepts, well written verses and strong production giving the listener more than value for money at only £7.99 in the iTunes store! Our only quibble was that sometimes the choice of language leaned slightly on the ‘religious’ side, which can sometimes hinder its evangelistic edge. This does seem characteristic of a large proportion of U.S gospel hiphop, and may be down to cultural differences in the UK. That being said I strongly recommend that if you like that southern sound, or are interested in sampling it without idiot mc’s speaking foolishness; then Trip Lee is for you.

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas and currently residing in what appears to be Americas gospel hiphop capital, Philadelphia; Trip Lee is one to watch for future releases; but in the meantime, support gospel hiphop and buy this album; 18 tracks of fresh music featuring industy greats such as: Ambassador, J.R., Lecrae, Diamone, Sho. Production by Tony Stone, J.R., Mac, DJ Official and others.

Similar vibe to; Southern hiphop, LeCrae, Flame, Da T.R.U.T.H

Review by: Phonetix