ALBUM REVIEW: Confidence: Torchbearer Vol. 3 by CONQUEST

Randy Bazile
Apr 6, 2023
3 min read

*Album Cover Art. Released November 2005*

In the epic conclusion of the Torchbearer trilogy, CONQUEST is at his most “Confidence.” “Confidence” embodies the central thesis of the overlying theme of the Torchbearer trilogy: Be bold in exposing the darkness as a bearer of light & truth (Matthew 5:14–16)

I know I said “Exposé” was my favorite in the Torchbearer series. It still is. But “Confidence” took it to a whole other level! Let’s get into it.

PRODUCTION

“Confidence” contains a diversity of hip-hop, soul, and a touch of rock. All these albums are a prelude to the evolved sounds of the CONQUEST we know today. The album is mostly strictly hip-hop, similar to “Torchbearer” & “Exposé.”

“E.G.O.” has production similar to “The Fabulous Life.” CONQUEST’s vision for his music is criminally underrated! He makes music that does not sound what is trending but stays true to himself. These qualities make him stand out as an emcee.

CONQUEST continues to slay the soulful side of his artistry with “Appreciation Day” with a side of rapping. Following the song “Unique,” where the message is towards women who settle for less, CONQUEST slows it down to dedicate the beauty of women (and his wife at the time) by showing how much he appreciates them. Ladies, I believe you’ll love this song.

LYRICS

Just like “Exposé,” CONQUEST raps bold, raw truth. Most of his music is in-your-face content. He makes sure (just like in his live performances) that everyone will receive the message through heard hitting beats with dope lyricism. “Confidence” is just how the album describes his music.

The opening song and title track, “Confidence,” is an in-your-face song where CONQUEST brags about his faith in God. He follows it up with “God Fearing One,” boasting about where his confidence comes from. It’s the type of confidence that would pique curious minds.

On “Word On The Street,” CONQUEST confronts the naysayers and folks that misinterpret the message of his music. People thought “Appreciation Day” was inappropriate because of its intimate lyrics. CONQUEST addresses them with passion and boldness while staying true to himself.

Then we got bar-heavy tracks like “Father’s Business” & “Y’all Already Know.” CONQUEST turns the beats into his lyrical playground. He gets help from his Missionfield comrades on “Father’s Business.” When Q The Prophet, Elijah Miguel, ENC & ‘QUEST get on a track together, it’s a real problem!

CONCEPT

“Confidence” is a collection of songs highlighting CONQUEST’s confidence in Christ, his music, his relationships, and his mission while being transparent.

“Unique” is a storytelling song of CONQUEST conversing with someone about losing a woman like no other. This is the first song on the album that tells the story of a false confidence that blinds a person to what is real in front of them. Latsha Divine delivers a powerful poem from the perspective of the woman in the song.

“Separation” is an example of being confident in the wrong things that’ll pull you away from God. He touches on topics like pop culture manipulating the gospel, exposing lies to attain fame & attention, etc. It’s a powerful song that brings an opposing side of confidence: temptation.

The album concludes on a praise & worshipful note with “Infinite Potential: The God I Serve.” It’s not a song with gospel production, but CONQUEST still brings the presence of God through heartfelt lyrics and thanks to God.

FINAL THOUGHTS

“Confidence” was a successful conclusion to the Torchbearer trilogy. ‘QUEST has grown through each album lyrically, spiritually, and personally. One thing each album had in common: Be the Light in a dark world.

Download/Stream “Confidence” on Bandcamp