J.R. presents the antithesis of an infamous heavy metal album of similar moniker, Death By Stereo, with Life By Stereo—signifying God’s use of music as a medium to communicate LIFE rather than DEATH. Life By Stereo centers on the human existence, its trials and the healing balm of the gospel message. Like the book of Psalms, J.R.’s pen scopes the lamentations, woes and triumphs of the whole person. Transcending generation and genre, the album ministers in a style all its own—fusing eclectic urban gospel, contemporary R&B, Rock and Pop styles in a way pioneered by tobyMac.
Building on the foundation of his debut album, Metamorphosis, J.R. has himself undergone a transformation, which is revealed in the artistry of this album’s hypnotic hooks and explosive lyrics. The Outkast-meets-Gwen Stefani “Not a Slave” contrasts a past life ruled by sin with a present life ruled by the Holy Spirit. The Coldplay-reminiscent “We Need You” gives voice to a heart desperately panting after the living God. Recalling the vocal styling of John Legend, J.R. escapes the “business” of everyday life to commune with his Lord in “Getaway.”
His live instrumental cover of Tim Hughes’ “Never Lose” emits the aroma of pure worship, while the bass-boosting “Tonight” celebrates the glory of new life in Christ with its feverish dance groove. “OK” is a refrain of victory for all believers who have been rescued from a corrupt lifestyle and this theme is carried over into the head-nodding and soulful “Say Yeah.” The drama of everyday life surfaces in “When the Thrill is Gone,” featuring gospel hip-hop heavyweight Lecrae. In addition, the album also features guest appearances from Stellar Award winner Da’ T.R.U.T.H., FLAME and Iz-Real from Everyday Process, as well as Reach Records’ Trip Lee.
J.R., the familiar R&P voice behind many of CMR’s memorable hooks, is a versatile crooner and multi-talented producer with unmistakable style. J.R.’s impressive list of collaborations includes “Cry No More” (Holy Culture/The Cross Movement), “N.F.L. (New Found Love)” (Moment of Truth/Da’ T.R.U.T.H.) and “My Clothes, My Hair” (The Thesis/The Ambassador) to name a few. He’s the point man behind So Hot Productions, the heavily sought after production company that contributes to the diversity of sound heard on many CMR projects.
Life By Stereo is a conduit of God’s messages on living—how to live, cope in and celebrate…life. An instant classic—this project has the rare quality of being musically relevant, timeless and evoking the feeling that years from now, we’ll all want to play Life By Stereo.
