When American-based R&B artiste Lukus Simari got onto stage at the Kasarani Sports Gymnasium during Xtreme Weekend 2005, few might have known that they would be treated to his very first performance following the release of his sophomore album, Streetchurch. At that moment he might have been a stranger to many, but everyone present had a clear picture of what he was about by the time he stepped off the stage.

Lukus 'White Chocolate' Simari is that kind of artiste that is totally unashamed of who he is and Whom he represents. Streetchurch, meanwhile, is as honest as they come; a strong R&B testimony inspired by the gospel, and told simply and charmingly.

Simari, from beginning to end, is sold out to his message, and his genre, making the most of both. He has a natural flair for songwriting, finding creative ways to put across what is in
his heart. His voice is primed and seasoned; his message grounded in the Word and divine wisdom. And it would probably be nice to mention that he wrote and produced all the songs.

The StreetChurch experience commences with 'All From You', where Simari establishes at the very start, who his Source is; and holds Him responsible for everything; from his lyrics and music, to his joy, to his income and clothes and car, and so on. He follows a similar theme on 'Blessed', where he testifies on the fortune that God has brought him, quickly adding the caveat, that even material blessings are temporary, so seek after those that are everlasting.

'Can You Feel Him' seamlessly follows. This mid-tempo track evokes the listener to get up and get down, not just for party's sake, but simply because God is worthy of being celebrated. Other inspired grooves you ought to prepare to move your body to, are 'Dance' and 'Why Don't You'.

'Loving You' is an obvious favourite in its own right. It makes use of warm winds, acoustics, hand claps and a catchy refrain to speak of a simple love for God. Featuring a strong guest performance from True Worshippers (the South African quartet famed for its own praise number, 'Veena'), this one made it into local Christian radio station playlists effortlessly.

Simari is able to strike a healthy balance between the simple and the intricate, introducing an introspective first-hand story on his life in 'Lonely Days'. Recognizing that only in experiencing true divine forgiveness could he truly come clean, he reveals what his life was like before he came to the Lord, speaking openly on his trysts with drugs, women and violence. He brings out the folly of Godless living, even making reference to the story of the Prodigal Son for sounder effect. The interesting twist here is, he does not try to give any impression that it's all fine and dandy now. The recent change is significant by all means, but his journey goes on still, as all journeys do.

Give' addresses the issue of tithing . Really. Can one actually make a danceable track, complete with rap interlude, and still deliver a remedial message on a subject that is extremely necessary but would be considered relatively (how do I say this .) orthodox? Lukus can. You need to hear the song to appreciate what artful seasoning is all about.

This album has its share of meditative moments. 'Hope' brings

forth true encouragement, the kind of salving support we soldiers of the cross need at one time or the other. On 'He's Real' Lukus shines the spotlight on the Messiah and the actuality of His existence as he has experienced firsthand. 'You Got Me' could very well be confused for a romantic ballad. Its lyrics are intimate, its melodies smooth and its harmonies tender on the ear. But a genuine love for the Lord is carried through all the way; confessions of true love from bride to bridegroom.

Another definitive track in the album is its title track. 'Streetchurch' provides an exposition into Lukus' ministry credo: take the gospel out of the buildings and cushy comfort havens, into the real world where it really needs to be heard.

"This is crazy. We've got a city full of people that are dying and hurting, and all we're worried about is what we're gonna wear on Sunday. It's time we chuck out the pews and get out into the streets."

That's just the intro. Lukus proceeds to drop a succession of nippy crooned rhymes, using the desperation of the world's situation to rubbish the thought of sitting in church all fly, blessed, comfy and unconcerned. Consider it his take on The Great Commission, with added contemporary oomph.

It is on the final portion of the album that Lukus prefers to shed his throwback jerseys to don the robes of worship. While 'Heal Our Land' inspired by II Chronicles 7:14 ( create hyperlink showing actual verse here?), implores the Lord to send His much needed balm to this injured world, 'We Run To You' affirms a communal adoration for God. Lukus gets the listener involved on this one by using simple call and response lines to encourage us to adore the Lord together.

"Turn our wayward hearts to you. We honour Lord the things You do.

Create in us a heart brand new. We want to know you deeper."

'You Are' uses deep guitar riffs to shift focus off the exalters and onto the Exalted. Various words of the Psalmist begin and interject this truly absorbed worshipful song.

'Lord I Worship' by itself would have brought the project to a soulful, satisfying end, but White Chocolate throws in his shouts and straight-from-the-heart parting shots to bring it all to full closure.

Lukus Simari - minister, storyteller, songwriter, singer, rapper, producer, worship leader, but most importantly, Man of God - has put together a wholesome, God-centered R&B experience. It's a refreshing listen for the bona fide R&B buff, and an appropriate primer for the novice listener. Simari seems to have had loads to say, and limited time and track space to say it in. He therefore crammed the project chockfull of lyrics and message. And still, everything single-mindedly points to the Object of his passion and reason for his being. I'll be looking forward to the follow-up to Streetchurch. And I'll remember to take the gospel of Christ to where it really ought to be heard.

Review by Mr. Mista.

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