Between Two Worlds

October 1st, 2010

Artist: Trip Lee

Formats: CD, MP3

Release date: June 22, 2010

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Holy hip hop has made great strides in the last decade with the quality and quantity of productions steadily increasing and record labels devoted solely to the genre being established. However, I occasionally find it necessary to “wade” through the newly released material to find insightful recordings with descent musicianship. Artist Trip Lee’s third album, Between Two Worlds, is well worth the effort. It is a far cry from mediocre and presents personal and provocative commentary on the hardships and injustice around the world while suggesting that there is hope that can be found through love and Christ.

As one of the youngest members of the Reach Records label, 22-year-old William Lee Barefield III, better known as Trip Lee, has a clear objective: to present the world with a “Real Life Music” alternative to less conscious listening materials. Fortunately, this mission is accomplished through artfully written lyrics and catchy, danceable beats. Lee collaborates with label mates Lecrae, Tedashii, and Sho Baraka as well as others artists.

Trip Lee relays his thoughts with a certain Southern hip hop flair, delivering each song in his heavy Southern accent courtesy of his Dallas, Texas upbringing. Between Two Worlds is highly personal as Lee indicates in the track entitled “Snitch,” in which he declares his willingness to be transparent in order to help listeners live a better life. His discussions range from his love of music to the limitedness of humanity as compared to the infinite power of God. He consistently advocates the importance of integrity, celibacy, and perseverance. “The Invasion (Hero)” featuring Jai is one of the most memorable and sonically dynamic pieces on this album. It fuses electronic synthesizers and string orchestration with a powerful hook. Here, he paints a vivid picture of the hopeless position of humanity which can only be rectified by the ultimate “hero.” Following is the official video:

Between Two Worlds is an insightful work that is sure to inspire self-reflection in any listener. In time, Trip Lee will truly be a musical force as he continues to hone and utilize his craft to convey messages of hope.

Reviewed by Raynetta Wiggins

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Review Genre(s): Rap and Hip-Hop