I was humbled that this unsigned Artist welcomed the risk of constructive criticism from joe538.com music reviewers. There are some great ministries making underground music. Persons such as Parabols need a break into the recording industry.

Parabols is an Ohio native with good potential. His rap style and voice reminds the listener of rappers Eminem and at times Snoop Dog. His CD has 18 songs on it, the lyrical content is Christ-centered, and many songs were denoted as “based on true events.” He is a great storyteller.

The CD is OK. It would recommend it as a good complimentary teaching piece for a youth group bible study because of its’ storyteller quality. The CD grows on you, and you can appreciate his talent. The fourth song ‘Push Till It Hurts” described how one should push till it hurts through their own addictions that “keep sucking you’re your hope like a tick.” I thought the lyrical content was corny, especially when Parabols said something like “my lyrics are so sweet /but I still eat fudge/won’t forget where I came from/ so I still wear floods.” However, I liked the beat, and his message was well intentioned.

The song “Life Without My Mom” was a sweet song, with a good beat. It seemed very personal. The song described life with the loss of ‘mom’ and how God takes care of the grieving person in the song. While resonating with the witness of the song, the lyrics “life without my mom, ain’t good enough” didn’t make sense to me. Instead, the producer may have considered the lyric ‘life without my mom, it seems so rough.’ I really appreciated and loved this song, but it’s just a thought.

In “Leave The Club Now” Parobols flow was TIGHT. As the CD progressed, I really enjoyed the music and his overall message. I wanted ‘more’ in this CD, and felt that songs such as his first cut “Bounce” needed ‘more’ edgy beats added to what was a good sound. I also had the same feeling of wanting ‘more’ when I heard the weak vocals in “Loose It.”

My favorite song was Pretty Jenkins that spoke of a young man who was HIV and was a sexually active lady’s man (a player). My least favorite song was “Jay Dream.” The story ‘Jay Dream’ was based on true events. I considered how his song’s concept described a conversation about a person had a dream, telephoned another person (the friend Jay), and told the friend that in the dream they’re going to hell. I know that Parobols messages are intended to reach someone. Overall, on the CD I concur with some of his various biblical interpretations and stories. Yet, some songs aren’t radio friendly. I suppose a rap about hell should also witness compassion instead of a spoken message directly at a person igniting a feeling of ‘fire and brimstone.’ The Good News for the song ‘Jay Dream,’ as with many of the songs on this Afterlife CD, is Parobol’s says they are true stories. Hence, individuals from each story accepted Christ as their savior, says Parobol’s. Now, that’s Good News!

Don’t misunderstand me, the content of Parabols songs are very relevant to our times. I enjoy Parobols’ stories because they offer the listener risk, and alternatives to familiar Christian messages. Yet Parabols messages, and his relevant scenarios will make the listener pause.

Another song entitled “La Café” is a conversation between an openly male homosexual waiter and the rapper. The waiter observes the rapper’s lifestyle at a local diner. In the song, the waiter asks the rapper to pray for his aunt who is somewhere in the streets on drugs. Again, the Good News is Parobol says it’s based on true events thus the conclusion brings new souls saved.

Parabols is an artist that industry executives should take a look at and choose to develop. His edgy concepts with guidance and talent cultivation will reach the downtrodden, and folks in the fringes of society. This CD “Afterlife” would be most enjoyable for believers who enjoy holy hip-hop storytellers, and as a ministry witness tool to those missing from the church.