Vytal MC, the Staten Island rhymer who traded the concrete jungle for the kingdom, isn’t an average rapper. His recent album, released on December 6, is a sonic sermon. A lyrical love letter to the God who rescued him from the streets and set his soul ablaze. On this new album called “Grace Plus Truth,” Vytal weaves intricate tapestries of faith, fusing high-energy trap beats with profound theological truths that’ll make your spirit soar. Forget the fleeting fame; Vytal’s mission is to ignite a fire in your soul, to remind you of the grace that saved you and the truth that sets you free. He’s a lyricist who doesn’t just rap about God; he breathes life into the Word, crafting verses that are as solid as a preacher’s. Let me walk you through this journey.
“Adam Was the First (feat. Romina Barba)” kicks off the album with a haunting beauty. Vytal, raw and vulnerable, lays bare his soul, wrestling with loneliness, suffering, and the desperate search for redemption. Romina Barba’s ethereal vocals echo the poignant question, “How many of us have to die?” a chilling reminder of the collective pain that plagues humanity. Vytal’s rap flows with the intensity of a soul in crisis, offering a lifeline of hope: “Christ is the plug; He’s the answer.” The production is a masterclass in mood-setting, with melancholic melodies perfectly complementing the song’s somber tone.
“Rejoice In Our Salvation” is an explosion of joy, a sonic celebration of the incredible gift of grace. Vytal’s delivery is sharp, his wordplay clever (“Here is some pi to eat, 3 points one four”—a” playful reference to the infinite nature of God’s love). Romina’s vocals provide a heavenly counterpoint, lifting the spirit to new heights. This track is a testament to the power of music to uplift and inspire.
“Trust in the Lord [Mwamini Mungu]” is a poignant reflection on the human struggle with doubt and the unwavering love of God. Lucinia Karrey’s soulful chorus, “Things ain’t going your way, and that’s okay, He’ll make a way,” is a balm for the weary soul. Vytal’s verses are raw and honest, filled with stories of human frailty and the enduring power of faith. The inclusion of Swahili adds a touch of global flavor, reminding us that God’s love transcends cultural boundaries.
“Grace” is a powerful reminder that grace is not just about forgiveness; it’s about radical transformation. Vytal’s message is clear: “When someone deserves to get punched in the mouth, that’s what we need grace for.” This isn’t about condoning evil; it’s about choosing love over retaliation, choosing redemption over revenge. The production is dynamic, blending hard-hitting beats with soulful instrumentation, creating a sonic experience that mirrors the song’s message of both struggle and triumph.
“Salty” is a poignant call for accountability and the power of words. Vytal challenges listeners to examine their speech, urging them to “speak blessings, not curses.” His delivery is raw and honest, reflecting the internal struggle between the flesh and the spirit. The production is minimal, allowing the weight of his words to truly resonate.
“Celebrate Me [CHH Forever] (feat. Kria)” tackles the pressure of fame and the importance of living for Christ above all else. Vytal’s powerful declaration, “Celebrate me because I live for Christ, not because I spit nice,” is a powerful reminder that true fulfillment comes from aligning our lives with God’s purpose, not the fleeting applause of the world. Kria’s haunting vocals add an ethereal layer to the track, elevating it to new heights.
The lead single, “Cast All Your Cares,” is an anthem for the weary soul. The repeated refrain, “Jesus has not forgotten you; cast all your cares; he got you,” is a comforting reminder that we don’t have to carry our burdens alone. Vytal’s delivery is both soothing and assertive, offering a message of hope and strength. The link to this single, is here
“Something New” is a celebration of transformation, a vibrant declaration of a life renewed in Christ. Vytal’s energy is infectious, his joy palpable. The production is uplifting, perfectly capturing the spirit of a life surrendered to God’s will.
“Mi Ago Alright Tonight (feat. Shaynari)” is a joyful celebration of life and the resilience of the human spirit. Vytal’s raw emotion is on full display, his gratitude for life overflowing in every verse. Shaynari’s vocals add a soulful dimension, complementing Vytal’s intensity perfectly.
“Spiritual Stream (feat. Lady B)” is a powerful exploration of holiness and the transformative power of God’s grace. Lady B’s angelic vocals provide a heavenly counterpoint to Vytal’s raw delivery. The production is rich and dynamic, blending hip-hop beats with stirring gospel-inspired instrumentation.
“Living the Dream” is a powerful call to embrace your God-given purpose. Vytal’s message is clear: align your dreams with God’s will, and you’ll find true fulfillment. The production is energetic, perfectly capturing the spirit of a life lived with intention.
“No Fakes Allowed (NFA)” is a sharp critique of superficiality and the pursuit of worldly validation. Vytal’s message is direct and powerful: “If you’re fake outside, no fakes allowed.” This isn’t just a song; it’s a call to authenticity, a challenge to live a life of integrity.
“Lord, Lord” is a powerful indictment of those who claim to love God but fail to live by His commandments. Vytal’s delivery is fierce, his message uncompromising. This track is a wake-up call, a challenge to examine the depth of our faith.
“Christ Is the Last (feat. Romina Barba)” offers another powerful collaboration between Vytal and the talented Romina Barba. Given the album’s overall theme, this song explores the centrality of Christ in our lives, a reminder that He is the ultimate hope, the final destination of our souls.
And finally, “Cast All Your Cares (Chopped & Screwed)” ends the album with a new perspective on the original track, with the “chopped and screwed” technique adding a layer of gritty intensity. The slowed-down tempo allows us to truly savor each word, immersing ourselves in the message of comfort and hope.
“Grace Plus Truth” isn’t just an album to listen to but a journey worth taking. A journey of faith, a journey of self-discovery, a journey towards a deeper relationship with God. Vytal MC, with his raw honesty, his lyrical prowess, and his unwavering faith, invites us to join him on this journey to experience the transformative power of grace and the enduring truth of God’s word. This is music that will move your soul but challenge your thinking and leave you wanting more.
Listen to “Cast All Your Cares” on Spotify
Follow Vytal MC here for more information
