Mark Arthur The Obligation
Released: 2011
Reviewed By: Joshua Dwight aka JDWhyte
Rating: 7.7 (of 10)
[xrr rating=7.7/10]

“The Obligation” features artists and producers such as: Dfree, Teddy P, Lampmode, Rocksoul, Mac the Doulos, Shai linne, JR, Jai, Michelle Bonilla, and plenty more. Every song on the album reflects a personal obligation from the life and walk of Mark Arthur as a Christian, which also reflects the title of the album. Social injustice, grief and recovery from losing a loved one, family, and mere practical application of scripture to everyday life are what you find in “The Obligation”.

When you first take a look at the extensive list of features on this album you almost feel obligated to buy it, and if you haven’t purchased a copy of the album yet, I will tell you that your money will not go to waste on this one.

The album cranks off with high energy in the track: “Gain” which enthralls you into a production that is very reminiscent of a Dr. Dre style West Coast beat where Dillon Chase, Shai Linne, Phien X, R-Swift, and Mark Arthur tag team over the microphone.

If high energy isn’t for you than you will be absolutely hooked on “Sweet Symphony” which features Michelle Bonilla singing beautiful melodies over an easy going hip-pop sounding beat. The song itself just grabs you by spirit and gives you a lifted feeling that leaves you encouraged and possibly reaching for the repeat button on your stereo.

This album is like riding on a roller coaster; 3 minutes of laid-back easy-going music, and then 3-4 minutes of wild up front and in your face music that has you craving more energy packed music. “Salute” is one of those energy packed songs too, and it definitely is a song that gets you moving. If it isn’t Mark Arthur bringing his flow that gets you pumped, it’s Eshon Burgundy and R-Swift ripping the Microphone to shreds with their lyrical flow. “Salute” will surely be a favorite to many listeners of the album. No doubt about it the album is diverse in musical style; there is a little bit of something for everyone.

I was actually surprised by the quality of this album for a first release. Mark Arthur held a consistent flow all throughout the album that is solid and shows that he is not timid on the microphone. Pouring heart, peace of mind, and values into every bit of his music, you can see a direct reflection of the heart and personality of Mark Arthur throughout the album.

Other songs worth checking out on this album was: Walk it Out, Get Up, Looks Can Be Deceiving, Reborn, and the “Pride” Cipher.

Comprehensive Ratings:

• Music: 7 of 10
• Flow / Delivery: 7 of 10
• Lyricism: 6 of 10
• Content: 8 of 10
• Creativity / Originality / Relevancy: 9 of 10
• Credibility / Confidence: 8 of 10
• Personality / Character: 9 of 10
• Presentation Quality: 8 of 10
• Overall Production Quality: 7 of 10
• Potential Impact: 8 of 10