DC Talk

Item: DC Talk
Author: Mark Baker

(1989)

Reviewed by Mark Baker

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Label ForeFront RecordsThe Rebel Base2002

ccm hip hop rap

When you think of 80's Christian music, who do you think of? I think about Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Amy Grant. There just weren't many Christian rap or rock groups out there, with a few possible exceptions. None of these "hard" bands were really popular, until in 1989, when a band of three college boys from DC made a band called dc Talk.

They provided the rap music that everyone was into back then, but with a Christian message. The lyrics, although simple, brought forth the Christian message clearly, and are some of the most honest lyrics that I've ever heard. The overall message is that we need to change our ways as a whole and focus on Christ.

Their debut album starts out with "Heavenbound," a catchy rap/rock tune where Toby, Mike, and Kevin proclaim that because of Jesus, they are heaven-bound. "Gah Ta Be," the next song, has more of a rap feel to it, and explains that we must be saved to be able to go to heaven. Some of the other highlights are "Hallelujah (Christ is King)" and "Spinnin' Round." The self-titled album ends on a classy note with a praise song called "He Loves Me," which is a medley of "Jesus Loves Me" with some of the lyrics from the poem, "Footprints," and extra additions as well.

Obviously, styles have changed over the years, and so has dc Talk, so this album sounds almost completely different than today's dc Talk that we know so well. There is even a song with a "beat box," where a guest rapper makes "funky drum sounds from out his lips." It's entertaining if nothing else.

Dc Talk was good for its time, but it isn't good enough to make me continue to listen to it frequently even now. If you are a die-hard dc Talk fan, or if you want to listen to some unique 80's rap, you might want to get this CD. Otherwise, wait until dc Talk comes out with a new album.

Mark's Score: 3/5

Josh's Score: 2.5/5