Main Review Da T.R.U.T.H. is one of Christian music’s most well-known hip-hop artists. With an impressive list of awards and chart- topping singles under his belt, Da T.R.U.T.H. is finally back after a two year hiatus with his fifth album, The Whole Truth, which is also his first album on Xist Records. Da T.R.U.T.H. doesn’t shy a way from sharing what he is convinced about, as this new album speaks of how we are nothing apart from Christ, forgiveness, how things work out together for the good of those who love God, the importance of being transformed by the Word of God, and more!
Musically, The Whole Truth is eclectic and actually quite melodic for hip-hop. Beginning with the haunting and exciting “Lights,” this album opens with a bang! Sounding light and electric comes “Impossible,” an encouraging reminder that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us, while “Without,” a grunge rock anthem with strong rap lines, brings the message further, that we are nothing apart from Christ and how we can’t live without Him. As can already be seen, Da T.R.U.T.H. has awesome lyrics that shine through his upbeat rap.
“Freedom,” haunting and composed of strong strings speaks of the freedom Christ has given us, but the highlight proved to be the high guest vocals from Donielle Rodwell on the chorus. The title track, featuring the renowned Mia Fieldes, breaks the gospel down simply, and Mia’s vocals were awesome, especially this almost emotional rhetoric of the chorus: “All of our sins have been erased/ He has lifted my disgrace/ I’m overjoyed, overjoyed/ that Jesus would make me whole!”
“Forgiveness” has a cool techno beat, obviously speaking of complete gratitude to God for His mercy, but is a little less captivating musically, while “Can’t Believe” speaks of being in awe of what Christ has done for us. The disco beat was quite enjoyable, but ironically, we hear most guest vocals from Eric Greene, Jr., rather than rap from Da T.R.U.T.H. “Brainwashed” is very bold lyrically, speaking of how the world seeks to brainwash us, but our need to be transformed by the Word of God and not be effected by the world.
“Do It For You” is autobiographical, stating that “if He can do it for me, He can do it for you,” while the electronic and energetic “Survivor” speaks of being a survivor of the devil’s attacks and now living for the King. “Ain’t Goin’ Back” talks of how Christ has given us eternal life, and we are never going back to the life we knew before. The serious “God is Good” borrows lyrics from Romans 8:28, reminding the listener that all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
“Alive,” one of two lead singles off Da T.R.U.T.H.’s The Whole Truth album, is a testimony of how Christ gave us life when He rescued us from the hand of the enemy. It is immediately followed by the remix, featuring Jahaziel. This time, it has a little more of a catchy pop tune, and definitely more enjoyable that the original. Sounding like an old movie, “Cherished” features CeCe Winans, and bears much resemblance to TobyMac’s original Christmas single “This Christmas.” Emotionally gripping, it is followed by the closing track “Go, Misfit, Go!” featuring a few other Xist Music artists, including “The Ambassador.” WIth an upbeat tempo and strong guitars, this track reminds us that Jesus was a misfit, and though we may be a misfit because of following Him, we have Jesus on our side.
Closing Thoughts Da. T.R.U.T.H. definitely shares the truth with his music, and his album The Whole Truth may have his best works yet! Featuring the singles “Alive” and the title track, this hip-hop album will definitely go places. His lyrics are very Scriptural, and the familiar guest appearances are definitely an added bonus!
Review Written By: Jay Wright [jay.wright@christianmusicreview.org] on 9/6/2011
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