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Jay Ess: Genesis Snapshots

 
'Waves...'
 
  It’s been a while since we’ve had a major album
  release from the ‘street’ side of UK Gospel.

  Whilst live shows, events, mixtapes and vocalists have
  somewhat dominated 2010, there’s still enough time for
  another Gospel emcee to make some waves in the
  scene.

  Solid Cuts
  Jay Ess has been the name most commonly brought
  up when looking for a balanced mix of street tales and
  scripture.

His 2009 release, ‘Who’s That Boy’ EP stoked the fire for a future release, containing some solid cuts for fans to step to.

After some a few years in the works, Jay Ess dropped ‘Genesis Snapshots’ project, in the hope that it will educate, empower as well as entertain the gospel faithful.

The album goes back and forth between slick Hip Hop cuts and reflective, soulful songs all signed off with insightful, rapid lyrical performances.

Not Just Preaching to the converted...

Straight from the opening we find that the album isn’t just about preaching to the converted but also an open call for those who have yet to answer God’s invitation.

‘I Was Just Like You’ is laced with a heavy, bass blasting track, which Jay schools all those stuck in their sinful ways that he too behaved like them before finding Christ.

The mood then switches to a more sombre affair, as the rapper invites gospel royalty in the form of Isaiah-Raymond Dyer, alongside JCC and Jean Louis to bless the track ‘Saved’.

‘Who Is It’, the lead single in the run up to the album release is a Reggae-influenced jam which guest Richie Dan seasons with an effective hook.

‘Intoxicated’ follows suit with an up-tempo, claps-and-drums led production echoing Jay Ess’ message of becoming intoxicated in the Holy Spirit.

The slower, introspective songs also provide a few highlights as ‘Good Love’s RnB mood is amplified with some real lyrics declaring love for the most High.

A Bible and a pen will certainly be handy when trying to break down the many theories/findings on the superb ‘7even’. We’re also treated to some standout performances from the UK scene’s elite on the ‘United Kingdom Cypher’ bonus track.

Consistent Balance

Although it remains consistent in its balance of Hip Hop and Gospel offerings, some of the tracks sound too similar from a production point of view, and besides the exceptional cuts the rest are seemingly filler.

However, when finding a track which brings top notch production and sharp lyrics together, we are given a treat.

‘Genesis Snapshots’ is a solid debut album from one of UK Gospel’s prominent names.

Ideally, I’d have liked the ‘street talk’ and deep Christian phrases to be reduced to either focusing predominantly on either one or the other; that way it makes it easier for a soon-to-be-convert to understand, or for Christians who understand the heavier side of the gospel.

Jay nevertheless is still convincing as a commanding rapper, whether addressing a church goer or a non-believer.

And finally...

‘Genesis Snapshots’ is a welcome addition to the list of good material released this year.

It provides insightful, entertaining material which will easily appease the fans who have been waiting for a Jay Ess release, as well as a great introductory album for anyone looking for a solid portrayal of UK Gospel music in 2010.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

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HENRY YANNEY

Hello, I’m Henry.
 
I contribute to the ongrowing industry that is UKG (UK Gospel, not Garage) whether it’s through album reviews, scriptwriting, interviews, podcasts or mingling with the scene's movers and shakers.

Having a keen/obsessive fondness on radio, I feel my future lies in this avenue and will continue to take the necessary steps to reach this platform.
 
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