You know Christian hip hop is starting to come a long way when the new emcees are doing covers of old hip hop songs. Hurray! (sarcasm) This project is actually quite nice, stirring into the roots of traditional hip hop. B-boying, emceeing, and deejaying are all fully recognized. There are nice interludes, funny quips, nice lyrics, and a fresh approach to what an emcee should be. KJ has been around longer than most and made his imprint on the scene with Sons of Intellect. I always worry when an emcee steps out on his own. Will his style change, will he sell out, or will the spotlight shine too brightly for an entire project? Fortunately, KJ maintains his composure and delivers. The only problem I see is the influence of a major label's un-urban ugly mug. "We need a radio hit!" "Isn't that a little too hard?" "Hey! You're white and you can rhyme, let's do it!" So, on projects such as these I'm never sure if the artist got to be completely himself. Give it a listen, and decipher through the pop to get to the hip hop.
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2004Reviewed by Marcus HathcockIt's been four years now since KJ-52 appeared on the Christian rap scene. Most fans are familiar with 52 for his "controversial" song "Dear Slim," which challenges Eminem's worldview. It all started, however, with 7th Avenue, an ambitious hip-hop album that introduced a skeptical Christian rap audience to a fresh rapper who could preach like Billy Graham with the youthfully appealing style of…ReAL Magazine 2000Reviewed by Dean M.The name KJ-52 reminds me of a cheesy cable channel that shows uneventful, homemade television shows for those who have nothing better to watch. When I heard the first song I thought that's what I was getting: the sound of two guys talking about who the best emcee of all time is, with a corny 80's drum track behind it. The talking continued and it became obvious that the greatest emcee of all…The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Tony LaFianzaKJ-52, a.k.a. Jonah Sorrentino, brings together an impressive cast of supporting characters for his debut record on Essential Records. Produced by Gotee Brothers' Todd Collins, guest appearances include rap talents Knowdaverbs, Deuce and Phanatik from Cross Movement, Bonafide of GRITS, and Amani. The result is an arresting, commanding experience in urban hip hop music. Mostly East Coast style,…Similar sounding releases
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