Rehab

Utilized by everyone from Amy Winehouse to Eminem, “rehab” has become a popular theme and catchphrase in modern popular music. However, the Christian rapper Lecrae completely repurposes the word for his fourth album. A conceptual work about the determination and rewards of transformation, *Rehab* is captivating, even for a non-Christian audience. Rather than resort to preachy slogans, Lecrae’s descriptions of temptation are sharp and intricate. “Killa” never explicitly names a specific vice, yet vividly translates its seductive power: “These honey dip lies mesmerize me / Pride’s got its crooked fingers twisted all inside of me… Evil looks so lovely covered in her lace of lies / And the silky smooth seduction just manipulates my mind.” Inevitably, the album’s protagonist is soon redeemed by the glory of Jesus, but even when he basks in the light of the Lord, Lecrae avoids clichés. Most importantly, the music is heavy, not corny. The album’s centerpiece is “Used to Do It Too,” a church sing-along with all the muscle of a T.I. trap anthem.