In the bustling city of Chicago, where the streets pulse with the beats of deep-dish bass lines and jazz-infused hip hop, one artist stands out with his commitment to the true essence of hip hop. Manoj V. Mathew, better known by his stage name ‘i.S. the WizARd a.k.a. Manoj V. Mathew’, has released his sixth studio album titled “blessOns.” This latest entry in his series “WizARdry” continues to showcase his unique blend of Christian Hip Hop, aiming to purify the genre of its commercial overlays and return it to its foundational roots.
The Journey of a Christian Hip Hop Artist
Manoj’s journey into the realms of music has been both profound and inspiring. Growing up in the culturally rich environment of Chicago, he was drawn to the vibrant and expressive world of hip hop. Influenced by legends like KRS One, Tupac, Rakim, and Eminem, Manoj developed a style that is both reflective and revolutionary. His artist name, ‘i.S. the WizARd’, not only hints at his magical ability to weave complex narratives through his lyrics but also reflects his mission to cast a spell of authenticity over the often illusionary world of hip hop.
His latest album, “blessOns”, is a testament to his growth as an artist and his dedication to his craft. Released on February 26, 2024, the album features twelve tracks that resonate with the struggles and celebrations of daily life, viewed through the lens of faith and perseverance. Songs like “Warning”, “Rewind”, and “Endure” highlight his lyrical prowess and his ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. Each track is a narrative, exploring themes of resilience (“Chase”, “Running”), introspection (“Intentions”, “kNOwME”), and the bittersweet flavors of human experience (“Bittersweet”, “Somehow”).
“blessOns”: A Musical Revelation
The album “blessOns” not only enriches Manoj’s discography but also enriches the landscape of Christian Hip Hop. Available on major streaming platforms like Spotify, YouTube and Apple Music, the album invites listeners to embark on a musical journey that is both enlightening and entertaining. The tracks are meticulously crafted, each offering a different flavor of Manoj’s artistic expression. From the stormy echoes of “Tornado” to the everyday relatability of “Day2Day”, the album is a cohesive collection that captures the complexity of life and the power of faith.
Manoj’s approach to music is revolutionary in its simplicity and honesty. He strives to replace “fake hip hop” with music that stays true to its roots—music that speaks to the soul rather than just the body. His work is a call to listeners to explore the depths of their own experiences and beliefs, mirrored against his rhythmic and rhymic expressions.
Conclusion: A Wizard in the World of Hip Hop
Manoj V. Mathew, as ‘i.S. the WizARd’, is not just an artist but a visionary. His albums, especially “blessOns”, are more than just collections of songs; they are movements towards a greater realization and expression of hip hop’s potential. For those who have followed his career, “blessOns” is a reaffirmation of his talent and his unwavering dedication to authenticity in music.
In today’s world, where the essence of music often gets lost in translation from studio booths to streaming services, artists like Manoj are essential. They remind us of the power of music to inspire, transform, and connect us. “blessOns” is not just an album to be heard but to be experienced, a perfect blend of beats, bars, and the Bible, crafted by a true wizard in the world of hip hop.
