Chris Lee “Kryptonite”
Chris Lee “Kryptonite”
Released: 2009
Reviewed By: Brad Davis
Committee Rating: 3.7 (of 5)
[xrr rating=3.7/5]
Smiles and perpetual head bopping. This was my reaction to Chris Lee’s “Kryptonite.”
I’m always hype when HC sends me an artist I’m unfamiliar with, especially one that bumps the usual suspects (insert generic underground backpacker, theological rapper) out of my iPod playlist. Chris Lee, an R&B artist in the vein of the prevailing acts in the mainstream, drops one heck of an introduction.
For starters, this album has top-flight instrumentals. The head bopping was not just a joke. Musically this was as crisp as could be. Can’t say I personally heard a groundbreaking melody, but nearly every song was done in excellence. “The Flood” is highlighted by trance-inducing synth to accentuate the pathos of Lee’s from-the-heart cry for God’s presence in the midst of the storm. “We Are Christians” excellently contrasts with an aggressive pounding drum and guitar combo supporting Chris’ low-key flow (oh, I forgot, he sings and raps!). Though there were some slight missteps (the calypso- tinged “Radio” should have never made the cut), it is nothing more than an oopsie in high-quality dopeness that is all over the production.
Strong theme of dependence on God, the regret of not giving Jesus to his friends, and maintaining his faith in hostile environments blend very well with his charismatic vocals. The aforementioned “We Are Christians” closes out the album perfectly. In this excellent “anthem-track,” Chris and his fellow emcees give a provocative memo to anyone who claims to scrutinize their love for God because of urban sounds or creative expression. It was done in good taste, and I’m glad they said it.
I seriously don’t have much critique about this project. I mean, I don’t like “Radio”; I like or love everything else. Give this one a shot, you can send your thank you email to me later. How’s that for a conclusion?
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Review Committee
Review by: Brad Davis
Rated by:
B.Davis – Avg Rating: 4.1
DJ Guardian – Avg Rating: 3.36
E Pluribus Unum – Avg Rating: 3.63
