The Smart Crew are a Nigerian gospel group based in Enugu. On the 29th of March, 2026, they released “Hot Praises Session”. The record delivers on its title, moving quickly and never letting up.
The song is a live-recorded indigenous gospel medley rooted in traditional eastern rhythms. Producer and group architect MrSmart handled the session, and his approach here differs slightly from the polished studio sound on “Super Praise.” This one has a rawer, more communal feel. That choice matters because Igbo gospel praise culture has always lived in the energy of a room full of people – and “Hot Praises Session” captures that.
Three names carry the record musically. Lead vocalist Epraise handles the worship side, lead guitarist Sir Maurice drives the instrumental energy, and keyboardist Ceejay layers the harmonic foundation underneath everything.
That distinction sets “Hot Praises Session” apart from many contemporary gospel releases that prioritize production polish over atmosphere. The Smart Crew went the other direction here, and it pays off. For listeners who grew up in eastern Nigerian church culture, this record will feel immediately familiar. Yet the modern instrumentation also keeps it accessible beyond that audience. Few groups balance both sides as cleanly as The Smart Crew manage to do here.
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