Four-time Grammy nominated and multi-platinum reaching DMX has a new album called Let Us Pray: Chapter X, which arrived on December 13, 2024.
This posthumous album is a deeply spiritual and introspective addition to the rapper’s ever-enduring musical legacy. This eight-track project uniquely combines DMX’s raw, heartfelt prayers with soulful musical compositions. Released via DefJam/UMe Records and produced by Grammy-winner Warryn Campbell (Kanye West, Alicia Keys), the album presents an intricate blend of Gospel, Spoken Word, and Hip Hop, offering music lovers a multi-layered glimpse into DMX’s faith and inner battles.
The album features collaborations with legendary artists like Snoop Dogg, Mary Mary, Killer Mike, Lecrae, MC Lyte, and Lena Byrd Miles. Standout tracks such as “Favor,” featuring Killer Mike and Mary Mary, create a powerhouse blend of gospel harmonies and layered verses. Furthermore, Snoop Dogg’s presence on “Grace & Glory” adds a nostalgic yet almost preacher-like aura. At the same time, Lecrae infuses with his own poignant bars on “Lifted,” successfully netting themes of redemption and unwavering resilience.
There are eight tracks, four of which are instrumentals. The production leans heavily on orchestral and gospel elements, presenting a feeling of solemnity and meditation that drips into a mesmerizing tone. The RoyzNoyz Orchestra adds layers of richness with live instrumentation, while DMX’s unmistakable voice commands attention with its sincerity and intensity.
However, a standout aspect of Let Us Pray: Chapter X can be found within its actual structure, where DMX’s prayers take center stage. These spoken word segments feel deeply intimate, almost confessional in the manner in which they offer moments of vulnerability that contrast with the fiery delivery present in his earlier work. Themes of faith, forgiveness, and personal growth resonate and reverberate heavily throughout, highlighting DMX’s lifelong battles with his own demons but ultimately pointing to his unwavering belief in God.
Let Us Pray: Chapter X is no typical DMX album; it’s a spiritual offering that explores his relationship with his own faith and mortality. While it may not be filled with the same raw energy that catapulted him to international superstardom, it is not meant to be. The differences in the record should not dissuade fans but rather energize and intrigue, as it provides a powerful and contemplative listening experience for those who wish to connect with DMX on a deeper level.
Overall, Let Us Pray: Chapter X reminds us of DMX’s profound impact on music and his unwavering faith despite life’s greatest challenges. That is why Cryptic Rock calls it one of the big highlights of the winter of 2024-25 and gives it 4 out of 5 stars.
){kind=link}
No comment