Below Paradise cover

Below Paradise

Tedashii · 2014

50 min · 14 tracks · Christian hip-hop

A vibrant blend of introspective lyrics and energetic beats that navigates personal struggles and faith-driven themes.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Below Paradise — The title track encapsulates the album's core themes, offering a raw reflection on life's struggles and the pursuit of hope amidst challenges.
  • →
    Angels and Demons — This track stands out for its powerful juxtaposition of light and dark imagery, illustrating the internal battle between faith and doubt.
  • →
    My God — In 'My God,' Tedashii delivers an uplifting anthem that celebrates divine support, making it a motivational highlight on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid writing and production but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a title track that sets a reflective tone, followed by a series of tracks that alternate between upbeat anthems and introspective ballads.
  • Several songs feature layered vocal harmonies and call-and-response elements, creating a communal feel typical of hip-hop but infused with gospel influences.
  • The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, allowing for a contemplative conclusion that contrasts with the earlier energy.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing for reflective moments
  • heartfelt exploration of personal struggles
  • interlude enhancing emotional journey
  • uplifting themes for hopeful listeners

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone hit tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 2014, Below Paradise is Tedashii's third studio album, following his successful 2011 album, Blacklight. By this time, Tedashii was solidifying his place in the Christian hip-hop scene, showcasing growth as an artist while responding to personal challenges, including the loss of a close friend.
Stylistic neighbors
Lecrae· Andy Mineo· KB

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Below Paradise 2:06
  • 2 Perfect 3:34
  • 3 Dark Days, Darker Nights 3:36
  • 4 Nothing I Can't Do 3:26
  • 5 Catch Me If You Can 4:30
  • 6 Paradise 3:40
  • 7 Fire Away 4:23
  • 8 Be With You 5:03
  • 9 Back To You (Interlude) 1:02
  • 10 Angels and Demons 4:34
  • 11 My God 3:00
  • 12 Love Never Leaves 4:02
  • 13 Complicated 3:34
  • 14 Chase 3:29

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata