everywhere and nowhere by Guvna B. [Review]

Michael introduced me to Guvna B. Featuring on Andy Mineo’s Keeping it movin’ is how some people seem to have noticed Guvna B. The London-based Christian hip hop artist has been around for a while, though. Without any more faffing I review everywhere and nowhere by Guvna B.

Having listened to his previous works, it feels like this is the one that he’s been rehearsing for. everywhere and nowhere is Guvna B’s most recent release and it’s been in my ears for about four weeks now. 

The Content / Main Theme(s)

The album title is an oxymoron. Though taken off the title track it’s a well-thought out one, and hints at what to expect. The body of work, as a whole is about contrasts. The seasons we find ourselves in. We can be happy and sad at the same time. Be hopeful and weighed down in pain and grief. 

everywhere and nowhere by Guvna B is one of the most brave works from a Christian artist I’ve heard in a while. He draws from his life experiences of joy and sadness.

In Bittersweet he mentions buying a house and a coffin months from each other. A house for his family and a coffin for his father. 

Cushty, at least how I understand it, is a about youth violence and deaths in his community. More than an artist, this is something Guvna B is involved in combating. 

Mazza follows up with trying to come up out of the reality of guns and violence. The efforts of his parents to give them better opportunities and wrestling for God’s purpose at the same time. 

Fall on me is a reflection and prayer. No denial of reality, an acknowledgement of human limitations and a simple invitation for God to help. 

Kumbaya highlights regrets. A reality of life. Challenging us to make time for what matters most.

I understand With me all along to highlight God’s presence through the difficult times. Guvna B features Travis Green and samples Matt Redman in You Never Let Go continuing the theme of God’s reassuring presence.

Safe Place speaks about the failures of the church. A pastor arrested for abuse, preachers exploiting people to buy jets. Guvna B talks about the ugly in the church. Using a snippet from Francis Chan, to echo a call the church to her true self. One of my favourites.

everywhere and nowhere is my favourite track. I love it so much I’m actually scared of messing it up in my attempt to unpack it. I’d love for you to listen to it for yourself, a few times. 

Substance and Sonics 

Guvna B’s everywhere and nowhere is his most defining work yet. It is weighty and real. It is his best work yet. Sonically it cutting edge yet uniquely Guvna B. 

“It’s like I’m half rapper, half worship leader, tryna find my place, find my lane, I’ve got circus fever.. The more I see, the more I feel out of place; I’m not quite Stormzy & I’m not quite Lecrae..”

Guvna B in everywhere + nowhere

Besides the Christian content is a great hip hop / rap album anywhere-hands down. 🙌🏽

What Some Might Find Challenging

The only thing I think will go over some people’s heads, is language. everywhere and nowhere, here and there, has language you’re likely to hear in the United Kingdom, maybe even unique to London. 

Be willing to do some searches in and there. 

Otherwise

This is a great album. Period. 

Get it here.

Blessing Mpofu

Editor In Chief

just a guy changing the world. husband to Ingrid. growing leader and communicator.