Rewind (Compact Disc)

Can Christians get crunk? St. Louis rapper Flame proves they can with his instant classic, Rewind. Sure, his hometown is best known for the pop-rap of Nelly, but Flame more accurately reflects the dirty south sounds of Young Jeezy, Trillville and Three 6 Mafia. For example, “No Silence” features anthem-like chants over slow and low basslines, while “Let’s Go” ups the energy with fiercely spit lyrics. Moreover, Flame possesses real lyrical skills that stand out on tracks such as “Gotta Notice,” which comes across like Ludacris on a Red Bull binge.

Still, for all the album’s strengths, there are a few weak points. Flame’s otherwise deft emcee skills take the occasional odd turn, such as starting the disc off with, “I’m back like when dudes used to wear biker shorts.” Could he have found a more undesirable visual? Likewise, many of the topics seem aimed at new or non-believers, but he uses such syllable-busters as “incommunicable attributes” and “three in his personages.” Flame clearly has a street sound, but he loses his edge by trying to sound too much like a seminary professor. Of course, when Flame is on track lyrically, he sets the mic on fire.

The album-best title track tackles questionable teachings in a deep, yet easy-to-follow manner, while “Wars of the Mind” addresses mental health with insight and compassion. Ultimately, Rewind’s strengths overpower its flaws, and Flame is still a newcomer with lots of room to grow. In no time at all, he’ll even have Lil’ Jon yelling, “Yeah!”

DAVID JENISON

Review Provided by CCMmagazine.com