Canton Jones is back on the gospel scene with his new release, Dominionaire. Always true to the formula that put him on the map, Canton has churned out enough head-bangers to satisfy the cravings of all you Hip-Hop loving Christians out there! He’s singing on it. He’s rapping on it. His writing skills are on it. His production skills are on it. And, as if that isn’t enough work for one man to handle, he’s even released it on his own label, Cajo Records! How’s that for drive?!
The cuts that give Dominionaire some good, Dirty South flavor are “G.O.D.”, “Big” (featuring Messenja), “Already Gone” (featuring D-Maub), “In Da Club”, and “Hallelujah” (featuring Deitrick Haddon, Mr. Del, and DPB). “Beautiful”, “Worshipper”, “I’m Fly”, and “Necessary (Remix)” (featuring James Fortune and Ramona Estell) bring listeners a bit closer to the Mason-Dixon Line with a melodic, soulful swing. The music slows down nicely on “Be Healed” and “Worship You”. And, you get small, yummy hints of church on “That Devil” (featuring Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson) and “Worshipper (Remix)” (featuring Jonathan Phillips).
A few tracks would have to grow on me. Though I really enjoyed the rap in the beginning, “He Reigns” (featuring Erica Cumbo) seems a bit contrived. The chorus for “When I Ride” had an…interesting arrangement. And, though I hate to admit this, I didn’t think the vocal on “I Believe in Love” was convincing enough. “All About the Kingdom” (featuring Big Ran) threw me a bit lyrically. The first verse gives props to all cool, self-sufficient women and declares them, “All about Kingdom”. Is that all it takes to be “All about Kingdom”? *Kanye shrug*
I’ve been hip to Canton since I saw the video for “Stay Saved”, the single from his 2005 release, Password: Access Granted. As a former hothead, I quickly identified with the struggle to maintain a Christ-like attitude in the midst of crazy situations, LOL. “Great Things”, the single from his 2009 release, Kingdom Business Part 2 Featuring The Cajo Family, is my joint, too! But, I still don’t own an entire Canton Jones CD.
*pauses for gasps*
I know…lemme explain.
I’m a R&B nut. I have to be in the mood for Hip-Hop…any Hip-Hop. The option to get a whole CD of Gospel Hip-Hop is simply not appealing to me. Musically, Hip-Hop, in general, is not unique anymore. In my opinion, Hip-Hop producers create their tracks with the same beats and production tricks that you’ll hear on every other Hip-Hop release. Heard one, heard’em all.
Yet, interestingly enough, I actually wouldn’t mind having Dominionaire in my arsenal for the rare occasions that I’d want to jam to some Dirty South Gospel Hip-Hop…and for the more melodic, slow, and churchy tracks on the project that appeal to my musical preferences. The talent, clean production, and sincerity exuding from the project are a sure draw for my attention.
But, don’t mind me, Hip-Hop fanatics! With only 4 possible skip-it’s out of 17 tracks, you’re good to go, LOL!
You can listen to snippets and buy it here
I am not a fan of Hip Hop music much less Hip Hop gospel but I like Canton. I heard his new song Window and it was okay.
Wow! I have EVERY Canton Jones CD. I appreciate his musicality. He is also a worshipper. I'm surprised by the harsh review, though. From his first project to this one, I see development in his musical style and his transformation into a true worshipper. It's a good thing sales are not predicated upon your review. This project is the best project that Canton has done up until now. If you are a Canton Jones fan, you will be thrilled to hear this power packed cd. Good job, Canton. You've given me 22 tracks of music that will tide me over until the next project...til then...dude. I'm already gone.
My issue is with the direction of hip-hop in general...not Canton. I called him talented and sincere...and gave hip-hop nuts the green light to purchase the project! I said it only had 4 skip-its out of 17 songs, LOL! Please tell me that's not considered harsh, lol...
Hmmm...that was kind of harsh and a little bit discouraging for especially for R&B/Hip-hop crossovers....we need positive feedback. I'm not that big a fan of hip-hop but I love Canton Jones work and anyone who is sincerely trying to bridge gaps, change lives and bring the gospel to all cross-sections...for that no negative reviews...all inspiration is from God and is targeted toward a certain audience, for a certain purpose...LOL
There's nothing wrong with an honest review. Give EJ a break and respect his opinion. In the end we are all adults who make decisions based on what we like. Some may buy this CD by Canton, some may not. I have his first CD and still play it, although I'm not a follower of hip-hop. Thanks for the review!
Sorry, I meant give Mia a break!
I'll stick with my #116Clique.
I certainly respect your opinions! :-) Unfortunately, I feel obligated to tell the truth in my reviews. If I'm feeling it, I'm gonna say that. If I'm not feeling it, I'm gonna say that. I can't simply say a project is great because it's gospel or cause the artist is a true worshipper....cause neither guarantee a project will be great....and if I did, my reviews would hold no merit. Luckily, in this case, I told hip-hop lovers that most of the songs are strong and that the project is a safe buy for them. So, the truth worked in Canton's favor...in my opinion. ;-) Canton is very blessed to have such devoted supporters though! I'm sure he'd appreciate your comments as well. Be blessed! :-)
I haven't brought the CD yet but from what I heard it is quite good. I will give my 2 cents on Friday (PAY DAY! lol)
I think the review was great! Thank you Mia! You expressed your opinion in a way that spoke your truth of the record AND, you didn't discourage anyone from purchasing it in the process. I've always liked Canton's music since the very first album. And I think that this one (album) is one step up from the former ones. It may not be for everyone, but I believe it'll reach the ones it's intended for. That's what matters :)
I really don't understand the connection between hip-hop and gospel but your granddad and I want you to continue being honest and sincere in your reviews!
I am a fan of Canton Jones. I like the CD; however, this is not is stronget release. Judging by most of the review i've read, perhaps this is not the site where Canton can get a fair review. if a person doesn't like " Hip Hop" how would he or she from a musical standpoint review this album properly? When I listen to the more traditional praise and middle of the road contemporary artist, they too use the sam cliche's and contrived production and all of these groups and artist pretty much sound the same as well. This is a problem in the music industry period. Everyone bites off of everyone. With this bing said, there are creative moments on this Cd. I just hope for stronger material the next time around.
For clarity... I rarely like Country and I rarely like Rock...unless its churchy Rock, lol. Saying, "I've got to be in the mood for Hip-Hop", is not me saying I don't like it. I do...when it's good. And I listed all of the good tunes on Dominionaire. But, yes, my overall gripe with Hip-Hop, in general, still stands, lol. Also, you don't have to necessarily be a "fan" of a genre to recognize a great song. Like I said, I rarely like Rock...but, don't let Aerosmith's "Don't Wanna Miss a Thing" come on, LMBO! I will STOP IN MY TRACKS to sing along!
Canton Jones had to grow me over the years and now I truly appreciate what he contributes to the gospel industry... and this new CD is off da chain! I highly recommend it for anyone who loves gospel and r&b/hip hop. Canton Jones offers a great alternative to any those nasty-mouth rappers and singers who constantly sing about sex - you don't have the sacrifice the great music when you listen to Canton Jones and the lyrics will keep you lifted. That broher also has a great spirit about him as well and he seems VERY sincere! He loves the Lord and despite what many may say that message is clear through out ALL his projects.
I believe canton jones would soar if he did r&b for the world or even rap for the world but thank GOD he choose to rap and sing for GOD after all somebody needs to stand up and be a real example for the kingdom of GOD and use their GOD given gifts for GOD!! I can't wait to see the day that alot of these other well skilled r&b songstas cross over to do full legded gospel what a beauty it will be but it's all in GOD's timing not mine or any body elses and it's a decision each of us have to make that just how loving and gentle GOD is CAJO says the HOLYSPIRIT IS a GENTLEMEN LOL SHOW YOU RIIIGHT LOL DUDE AMEN ON THAT NOTE!! GOD BLESS YA'LL CAJO FAM I LOVE ALL YOU GUYS WORK AND I LOVE THAT YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO FOR JESUS CHRIST CAUSE ONLY WHAT WE DO FOR CHRIST WILL LAST!!!
Hey God Bless, personally I think Hip Hop does not belong in the 'Church'. Artists these days have basically 'souled themselve' to compromise. This is the test........... Someone who is on the verge of suicide,. They listen to a Track by lets say Canton Jones. ( a hip hop gospel ) track, and they listen to ( Total Praise , by Richard Smallwood). Well the answer would be, if they are depending on that hiphop track to unconvince them from suicide, ,...... I hope they have insurance. Make a long story short. Hip Hip Gospel is not effective, NO annointing, no 'yokes' being broke! Lets stop playing!