Heroes for Sale

Christian hip-hop has found a gifted new recruit in Andy Mineo, who first gained notice with his 2011 mixtape *Formerly Known*. *Heroes for Sale* gives him room to release dazzling volleys of rap against tracks that mix solid beats with seething swirls of electronica. Mineo doesn’t mind coming on strong and swaggering a little, as aggressive tunes like “Cocky” and “You Will” show. He tempers his brassy attitude with a willingness to bear his scars, whether he’s grappling with family issues (“Bitter”), considering past mistakes (“Curious”), or dealing with temptations of the flesh (“Shallow”). Mineo’s testimony gains impact from his ability to tap into a wide variety of musical influences. The Latin percolations of “Uno Uno Sies” (featuring Lecrae), the rock guitar riffage (and sly *Wizard of Oz* references) of “Wild Things,” and the techno groovery of “AYO!” keep listeners giddily off-balance. Amid the inspired flow and unexpected musical fusions are powerful Scripture-based messages that contrast human weakness with the majesty of God.

Heroes for Sale is the 2013 debut studio album from New York City-based Christian rap and hip-hop artist Andy Mineo.