September 13, 2004 - Urban D

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Urban D—The Immigrant
Fla.vor Alliance Records, 2004
Reviewed by Michael Burton
September 13, 2004

If you like: Crossmovement, Ambassador, T-Bone

First things first. Raise your hand if you like a little Latin flavor. Uh-huh. That’s what I thought. Me, too. Every track has something new to offer on this album, from very Latin beats and sounds to the straight East Coast Hip-Hop and a subtle infusion of Mediterranean sounds. The more I listened to this album, the more I found myself drawn to the offbeat sound and straightforward lyrics, found in every song.

Urban D is pastor of what has been called “The World’s First Hip-Hop Church,” based in Tampa, Florida. Born and raised in Philadelphia, he became involved in rapping at a young age. Although he did grow up in a Christian household, he spent several of his teenage years living the street life before committing his life to Jesus at the age of 18. In 1999 Urban D’s national debut The Missin’ Element was released and he has since developed a national following by touring with groups like TobyMac, KJ-52, GRITS, and Audio Adrenaline.

Because of his roots in Philly and his life in Florida, this album has a lot to offer in the way of Latin and traditional East Coast Hip-Hop. A few representative songs on this record are:

• “The Immigrant” is a sweet mix of Latin piano, guitar, and horns, with a solid East Coast beat. Lyrically flowing, creative and interesting, just the third track, gets you in the mood to nod ya head.

• If you like Ambassador, you will definitely like “The American Dream.” A totally East Coast sound from the minor-key strings to the simple bass line and the basic beat. Also a lyrically thought-provoking song: “ From suits and ties, to Tims and jeans, most just need to be redeemed.”

• “Broken English” is a surprisingly heart-wrenching and candid song about the apathy of the so-called Average American for the plight of the poverty stricken and hopeless here in America. Based on Matthew 25:40, 45, it rhymes: “I could cry a thousand times, but it wouldn’t change this life of mine.…What will you do for people like me too?”

Urban D has compiled a heartfelt, candid and creative record. This album has everything from the light-hearted tracks to the deeply emotional spoken-word on the last track (“Eternally Alive”). Eight out of ten for “Greek-Dudes-From-Philly-Playing-Latin-Hip-Hop.” If nothing else, go down to your favorite music-seller and at least check this CD out.

ninetyandnine.com

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Michael Burton is an English student in Denver, CO. He plays the bass, teaches Sunday school and is blessed with the company of the smartest and most beautiful girl in the world. Don’t hate.