ALBUM DESCRIPTION

DJ Nicholas is back and truly "Louder Than Ever!" His boisterous sound needs no introduction and his unique tone requires no amplification. This energetic trailblazer is by far one of the most talented deejays on the gospel reggae scene. With an unparalleled passion, Nicholas once again spits lyrics without compromise or apology.

This project is the highly anticipated follow-up to his widely popular and multi award winning debut, "On The Shout." This time around Nicholas has chosen to work alongside producers Danny Brownie, Karl Gibson, Dale (Dr. Dizzle) Virgo and Jermaine Edwards with splendid results.

While he is a multifaceted artist, on this album two sides of Nicholas prevail; The deejay and the preacher. His skill-set as a deejay is apparent when he takes us to the streets on hardcore songs like the addictive "One Less," the ethereal "Trouble" and the ominously dark "Round Here." His forte is mastering the most militant up-tempo riddim with extreme precision. This is best found on spitfire tracks like "Wise as a Serpent," "Harvesting," "Back 2 D Owner" and "Under Subjection." Songs like these are what Nicholas is renown for.

There is another side of Nicholas that has developed significantly since his conversion from a Rastafarian years ago. These days DJ Nicholas is also known as "Minister Nicholas," a title given to him on stage by two ministers in Jamaica before a sea of witnesses. His gift at the pulpit has become all the more apparent on this album in songs like the foretelling "I Prophecy," and the charismatic "He that Dwelleth" where he replaces rhymes with what some may consider religious rants. While this type of address may be common in the Pentecostal church, it is rare to hear something like this make a studio release. Two of my favorite offerings from Minister Nicholas are the familiar "Revival" and the cleverly adapted "Things Already Better." On these tracks and others he takes us to the church with memorable hooks, sharp lyrics and a witty delivery.

Following the tremendous success of "On The Shout," Nicholas has gathered an impressive lineup for this ultra-hot release. This project boasts features by Teena Tamara, Omari, Jermaine Edwards, and two appearances by Judith Gayle. One of my favorite cuts on the album is the meditative "Living for Jesus" featuring Edwards. On this track we get a glimpse of a lower key Nicholas that compliments much of the bombastic delivery on the rest of the project.

Whether he is deejaying or singjaying over dancehall, soca, hip-hop or roots riddims, it is all the more apparent in this second installment that Nicholas is one of the most passionate and clever lyricists in the gospel reggae arena. With a truly original approach, he also has one of the most distinct vocal sounds in both gospel and mainstream reggae.

Wherever you are on your journey with God, this 18-track powerhouse is sure to satisfy even the most critical of ears. On "Louder Than Ever," DJ Nicholas seamlessly blends the sound of the streets of Kingston with the heart of the church and the passion of a tremendously talented artist. Order your copy today--You won't be disappointed!

Review by Mark Mohr