Deitrick Haddon Lost & Found (CD)

Ignore the silly "Mr. D.J." intro and you'll discover that Haddon is a bright new presence in the realm of hip-hop gospel who seeks to blend old-school musical values with funky modern production. The thumping grooves and smooth backing vocals behind Haddon's passionate pleas on "D.D." summarize the overall vibe here. Secular audiences can enjoy the beats and his rangy, soulful voice, but he's definitely Christ-centered in his themes. He's not always overly preachy. On the dreamy light funk ballad "Ain't Got Nothing," he's a little more general in his spiritual message, simply explaining that material gain without true love is meaningless. The trip-hoppy atmospheres on "Sinner's Prayer" bring a bit of Lenny Kravitz (minus the electric guitar crunch) to mind, while "My Prayer" would feel even more comfortable on an old Philly soul album. The most attractive songs here are the ambient-heavy ones, but there are a few hardcore gospel stompers too, most notably the Ricky Martin-flavored, Latin-inflected "The Prayers Go (Up Up Up)." Another highlight is a simply produced "Worship Medley," which functions here as a hymn-anthem in between the more produced, commercial material. It's hard to predict whether Haddon will enjoy the big-time crossover success of a Kirk Franklin, but if not, it's not for lack of talent and spiritual commitment. ~ Jonathan Widran, All Music Guide