When someone is releasing an album self-described as "90's hip hop," you have my immediate attention. I grew up on the hip hop artists of the 1990's, so the bar is set very high, but I am immediately stoked to hear what the album may have in store. And even though that kind of release does not come around very often, that is exactly what BEC Recordings' Andrew Marcus--going here by the stage name Addition--is dropping with this EP, Lift My Eyes. Let's see how this stacks up to today's CHH scene before we get to evaluating the 90's rap vibe.

The first song on this seven-track sampling is "Father's Heart," a solid introduction tune filled with 90's hip hop beats with a total focus on who Jesus is and the gospel-filled Biblical accounts. "Under Your Wings" and "Lift My Eyes" follow next with even more Biblical truth. They both carry a very chill vibe for listeners to slowly nod their heads to, setting the stage for what this EP is all about. This release is unapologetic about God and Addition's adoration of the Savior. "Still Waters" and "Hiding Place" give listeners a call to follow Jesus daily and to remember His protection even in the hardest of circumstances.

In the end, not everyone will love the homage being paid to 90's hip hop, but if you appreciate the likes of Blake Knight or Royal Ruckus, then this may be exactly what you are looking for. The rhymes are God-focused, the production is fairly simple (which is exactly how many beats were 25 years ago), and I can see old school rap fans digging this one. That being said, your typical Lecrae, Bizzle, or Derek Minor fan may not enjoy this throwback very much.

- Review date: 8/21/17, written by Kevin Hoskins of Jesusfreakhideout.com