Thursday, May 28, 2009
Review: Tedashii's "Identity Crisis"
One pattern you'll often see in the lives of many unbelievers is a never-ending search for meaning in their lives. People may dabble in astrology in hopes of seeing a picture of who they are, sent from the cosmos. Or, they may amass a small library's worth of self-help books to discern their true nature and how to live properly according to it. Others take a more destructive path to self-knowledge, using drugs and alcohol in the same way Clark Kent used any available phone booth--as a gateway to becoming what they perceive to be a more dynamic, more special person.
It seems like these strategies don't really work for most people, as the emptiness persists and the search continues. Ask a Christian about fulfillment, though, and you'll get a different answer. With Jesus Christ comes both meaning and purpose, bringing the constant searching to a halt.
Tedashii's latest, "Identity Crisis," speaks to that struggle, and the good that can be found on the other side of it, after God enters the picture.
Whether it's in searching for identity in material things ("26's"), worldly vices ("Hollywood"), or in people-pleasing ("Work"), Tedashii rightly points out that all three of these behaviors represent idolatry and result in wasted time and emotion.
The antidote for such poisoned thinking can be found in "Gotta Believe." On the serene, live instrument-backed track featuring Diamone, Tedashii's relaxed rhymes and the subtle vocals on the chorus ask sinners to try God for the peace that can be found in Him.
"Fresh," a totally danceable anthem, brings home the happiness and strength that can be obtained through a relationship with the Lord. As detailed in the song, the "I'm fresh" proclamation gives the boast to God, rather than having Tedashii talk about himself. "All I Need," featuring Chris Davis, is a soothing head-nodder that also proclaims the goodness of the Lord. "The more I get to know you, the more I get to know truth/And from You, I see who I am/My identity revealed as You show me how to live through examples of the Godhead," Tedashii says with gratitude, bringing the album full circle.
One thing that makes "Identity Crisis" so enjoyable is Tedashii's candor. Whether loudly sounding the trumpet for action against himself on "Make War" or spending quiet quality time with the Lord elsewhere on the release, Tedashii makes it seem like anyone who wants a relationship with God can have one. Unlike the "gurus" in the secular world who seem to guard the secrets of existence, releasing them only for monetary gain, Tedashii is more than willing to let all listeners in on the true secret to wholeness and peace.
Additional standout track: "Identity 2: Adoption"
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