CD Reviews….G. Mayes & Nu Era

Diary of a Strong Souljah
G. Mayes & Nu Era
Light 2007
www.lightrecords.com

I continue to be impressed by the tough hip-hop gospel sounds pouring forth from Light Records these days. Another such selection hits the streets next week: Diary of a Strong Souljah, Houston-based Gary Mayes and Nu Era’s third project.

There’s so much music packed on Diary that it takes two CDs to contain it all. And you have to love CDs bedecked in camouflage, and a press packet that includes a dog tag, but it makes sense, because the project turns time and again to the “I’m a Soldier in God’s army” motif. The cover photo (above) shows said dog tag and Mayes in fatigues.

The opening (and likely the hit) track, “Hit the Deck,” is hypnotic, with rapper BB Jay and Mayes leading a “shakedown, takedown,” shouting orders as the choir, like a saved and sanctified security force, gives the devil ten seconds to “put your hands where my eyes can see.”

Nikki Ross contributes an amazing solo on “Wait on Him,” and “He’ll Come Through” is a nod to the traditionalists, with a Hammond organ and inspired preaching and singing by Kurt Carr vocalist Nakitta Clegg framing this seven-minute piece. Some time editing could make it another radio single. “It’s Time to Worship” features an organ-driven riff that sounds like the product of a 60s garage band. “Gr8 Day in the Mornin’” is a church rouser (with such a title, what else could it be?).

The second CD includes the upbeat “Oh I Thank You” with memorable hooks, and the live jam vibe of “This Joy,” featuring the Nuworld Muzick Family.

Of course, traditionalists will wince at the text-message influenced titles (“It’s time 2 worship” and “Gr8 day n the mornin’” are examples), but contemporary gospel fans will enjoy the non-stop movement as Mayes and Nu Era give the devil fistfuls of gospel ooh-rah.

Three of Four Stars