I first spoke on Leon Ross’ new EP yesterday with the “it sounds like it could be on 2K23“ vibes on “Out Here.” Thankfully, he sent me the rest of the project so I could get a full view of what he wanted to put down within his Ross EP. The project clocks in at six tracks and just under seventeen minutes. However, in that time, we’re given an entire look into who Ross is as a person and it’s not just hoop puns or even just a rapper with Christian leanings. Now, don’t get me wrong: the Christian leanings part of things still comes out a great deal–as it should. But he’s more than just a West Coast Christian rapper.

Through these songs, we get a look at the man he was, the man he wants to be/is becoming and the man he hopes to be when it’s all said and done. He wants to be the type of man his late sister can be proud of, especially since she meant a lot to him. He wants to continue to learn and grow, not just stay out here lusting for money or sex or anything that’ll eventually bring him down. He wants to stay out of the streets and in the lives of his family–which is definitely something that I can appreciate. That’s because we often get raps with artists sacrificing their own lives, the lives of their families (not to mention, the lives of others and their families) just to make a quick buck/settle a petty beef. He doesn’t shy away from anything on this project, but does deliver everything in a mostly-clean sort of way. That said, it’s truth music that just about anyone can get behind.

One of my favorite tracks off the album is “No Fear,” because it lets Ross get a bit braggy and the like–while not losing himself or his mission. Plus, the beat has a throwback sort of vibe to it while still sounding contemporary. Sure, he’s got a gruffer side to him on tracks like “Let Em Sleep,” but I liked “No Fear” more because the beat let him just jab and dodge the BS. If you’re in the mood for a Leo (had to mention that) who knows he’s a king and a king guided by God, this one’s for you. I’m sure you’ve got seventeen minutes to spare for some real rap. Check out the project below and support dope music in all its forms.