Reviewed by Steve Hayes

Do you remember a time when you opened a present as a child and your eyes popped out because of the amazing gift you found inside? 'Lions In Suits' by Hampton Roads, Virginia-based Legin, Mike Bell, Sinai of Renaissance Movement Music (aka RMM) is one of those moments, like opening up a live box of hip-hop fireworks. Almost before the wrapping is off, you're hit with "Why I Do It" which sets the tone for what's to come. With production about as high as you can get, creative beats without becoming indie hip-hop ("Bold") and vocal deliveries often within tracks (the insanely furious vocalism on "Ain't Worried"), this is a hip-hop gift that you need to make your own. There are moments of southern sub bass, other genius times of delivery over minimalist beats and then times when the track builds and explodes into life like a lion disturbed from his slumber as seen in the powerful "I'm Not". All through the album, Legin, Sinai and Mike Bell are on point and living in the truth of Christ and his power. "He's the lion, better pray he doesn't prey on you/Last time he was murdered he didn't stay but he was raised for you." ("Spurgeon Theory"). In the case of this "present", opening up not only leads to a brilliant hip-hop album, it also leads to Christ.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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