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Reviews Review of Romaine's New Album On his 11 song new release Let ‘Em Hear It, Josh Romaine blends infectious rap beats, an array of up-and-coming artists, and an aggressive Christian message, into one cohesive collection. Perhaps the frequent complaint against so called “Christian rap/Holy Hip Hop,” is that there is a total lack of originality, which leads to tired rap clichés being awkwardly tossed together with “shout-outs” to the Almighty, and barking celebrations of “Jee-zus, what what!” This bizarre relationship is typified by replacing the traditional “When I say ‘hey’ you say ‘Ho!’ Hey, Ho, Hey, Ho!” with “When I say ‘Jesus’ you say ‘Christ!’ Jesus, Christ, Jesus, Christ!” As an artist, reviewer, and fan of good music in general, I am happy to report that Josh Romaine’s CD is free from such offenses. In its place are clever and engaging lines such as these five from the song “What Do You Do” Featuring Sonny Duke and Joski.: “Cause evil is a hierarchy and I’m battling the prince Bulldoggin’ like Gonzaga, with the dagger in the trench Trying to make this ungodly image stagger when I flinch If I smile he’ll take a mile so I can’t let ‘em have an inch Put me in the game coach, put that sucker on the bench.” Each track
in the collection has its own flavor and style, from the anthem-like
beats of “Renegades for the Lord” and the title track “Let
‘em Hear it,” to the politically-charged words of “We’ve
All Seen Struggles.” There’s even an up-lifting “girl-power”
song called “Beautiful” written by Sarahenity. On tracks
like “Pay the Price” we’re treated to delicious couplets
such as: Josh Romaine
has fused the rap formula, with his own personal witness, to create
what he’s dubbed “music with a message.” What struck
me most about this CD, was not the artwork and graphic design, although
those are done very professionally; and not just the abundance of clear,
uncompromising quotations and references to Scripture, although that
is impressive as well, but rather, Josh Romaine’s sincerity in
every element of the music. With his obvious sincerity and commitment
to his craft, I would not be surprised if you end up hearing the infectious
rap beats of Let ‘Em Hear It on the radio, or seeing the videos
on youtube. Until then, you can always purchase
the CD on shuarecords.com, or at local shows when Josh Romaine is
performing in your area. |