The cover says it all, Sneakers, turntables, a boombox, an sp1200, krylon cans and this little rectangular things called cassettes. THIS IS HIP HOP!!! sorry kiddies. I side with Stephen the Levite on this debate. In an era when so few dj, why artists call their projects mixtapes befuddles me. Putting out  a group of mp3s for free in a nonblended form is cool, but be original call it something else. Don’t change the meaning of what a mixtape is. Anyways,  enough ranting.

Since I started being a CHH fan 10+ years ago, I’ve always noticed a constant struggle between artists who value the culture of hip hop vs simply using it as a medium to evangelize. Camps on both sides would take sideways shots at each other. Seems like some still do. But what is more glorifying to God than striving for both? Why pressure an artist to choose sides? This mixtape by Zae da blacksmith and average joe is a perfect example. Zae spits lyrics heavily laden with reformed theology and christ centered goodness while average joe mixes a soundscape which makes my golden era ears happy.

The beats are on point featuring production by well known beatsmiths like Mac the Doulos,Wes Pendleton, and Joe himself but the majority is handled by JustWord. I’m not as familiar with his work but I will be now- he’s got skills. My personal favorite tracks are "Espanglish"- Zae flows fluidly between spanish and english over a headbanger of a beat, and "The Magnificent"- featuring Timothy Brindle and Stephen the Levite both (who as always bring it at the highest level of lyricism and and godliness).

Honestly, sonically all the tracks are pleasing to the ears on this mixtape. My only criticism is in its length. I think it would have been better if they cut some of the shout outs out or released it as 2 volumes, but that’s minor. Overall, if you are a true hip hop fan you will love this. Good job brothers! I encourage everyone young or old to check this gem out.

Categorical Ratings Breakdown:

Originality/Creativity: 4/5
Lyrics/ Delivery: 3.5/5
Beat Selection/production: 3.5/5
Concept/Arrangement: 4/5

Bandcamp | iTunes