The Pressure's On
Posted July 25, 2013
By MarkRyan_NRT, Staff Reviewer
Apply Pressure, the latest album from veteran Christian Hip Hop artist R-Swift is a masterfully produced, hard hitting, personal album. The album features such artists as Social Club, Butta P., J.R., and Sho Baraka. The album engages the listener from the first bars and leaves you wanting a little more at the end. Thank God for "repeat all."
The title track, "Apply Pressure," opens up the sonic marvel. The beats are hard, and with a touch of choral work throughout, it makes you want more before it has even really started. R-Swift's lyrics are deep. His wordplay is borderline genius: "I'd rather be in these chains for being brave and honest / then to be a free man but a slave to silence." This is premise for the entire song.
The hard beats of "Apply Pressure" are followed up with a smooth R&B vibe on "For You." The album is for you, the listener—for those who are depressed, those who are struggling, no matter of race and religion. It is an open letter to his listeners; R-Swift is speaking to who he cares about, truly taking the great commission and his mission very seriously. Loving the unlovable.
The vibe continues into "Raindrops" feat. Social Club. Definitely a smooth-sounding track, this song reaches into the depths of struggles seen by the artists featured, but also relatable struggles. Even though it's raining haters all around, and things are going crazy, we know that we are going to make it and things will turn around.
Swift continues to move through the issues in society today with "Problem." This is not unlike Bizzle's track "Dear Hip Hop." It speaks to issues in hip hop music and the culture altogether. I like to see Christian artists standing for truth and speaking against a culture that is doing more harm than good.
"Don't Cry" is a heartwrenching song. Taking on the issue of abortion from the viewpoint of the unborn child. Throughout the song the child speaks his heart as to how he feels about his mom potentially aborting him. Lyrics like, "believe me when I say I'm feelin your pain / you said oh my God, my mom is gonna kill me / and meanwhile I'm inside thinkin the same" and "I'm fightin for my life / but you're fightin to lose it." The song is real talk and whether or not you agree with abortion, you can't ignore the feelings displayed in this song.
"April 19th" is another extremely emotionally charged track. With a solid beat and backed by piano, one can begin a time of introspection as Swift shares his feelings. The song is about depression and suicide. The song is Swift's own journey and because of his faith and his understanding that joy comes in the morning, is the reason why we have this song.
Final Thoughts:
Honesty. Truth. Realness. That is what this album brings. It may be a little heavy for a Sunday drive, but it is perfect for reflection. The beats are superb, lyrical content may truly be life changing for some listeners and the heart of the artist is laid bare for all to see.
Song to Download Now:
"Don't Go" (Get it on iTunes here.) View All Music And Book Reviews By MarkRyan_NRT | View MarkRyan_NRT's Profile
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