The Cross Movement is arguably the best rap group to ever come out of the Christian rap genre. The group has been releasing music since 1997, and Human Emergency is an almost perfect album... almost.

The idea behind the title, Human Emergency, stresses the need for Christ in our lives. The music goes along with that theme on every single track. The group's focus is always on describing how great God is, telling us how to come to Him, and proclaiming Jesus as Savior. This album is also very street worthy, and because of their obvious talent, these guys from Philly could never be accused of not knowing the rap game.

The CM brings some of the best lyrics that will ever grace a rap album on Human Emergency. "Know Me, (Huh What)" is lyrically one of the best tracks. The Phanatik spits out, "All to Him and none to me, was pinned by sin like 1,2,3. He healed me, filled me, saved me, gave me life abundantly," at a breakneck speed. "Cypha 911" showcases some more poignant lyrics, such as "Set it straight man, tell the real deal about Satan. No horns, pitchfork, red suit and cape man, but he hates man."

While this record leaves no doubt that it is a rap album, there is still a bit of diversity. You will hear a few radio-play tracks such as "On Right Now," which serves as a reminder to believers to live right for Him, and "To My Peoples," which features a very catchy hook. You'll also notice some ethnic diversity on The Tonic's "Live Agua" and on "Lord?" which features M.O.D. "What Do You See" and "Back Up" are both unique storytelling tracks. This album brings it all, including a couple of "fillers" which would possibly be the only downside to the 70-plus minutes of music.

Whether you're a fan of some serious rap or you just want some God-centered music, you should definitely pick up Human Emergency. It's the type of album that you keep in your stereo for a long, long time.

- Reviewed: 10/22/07, written by Kevin Hoskins