French Connection, "Perfect"
Irievibrations
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
One of the best reggae/dub labels, Irievibrations is back with another solid artist, French Connection. Produced by Romain “Sherkhan” Chiffre for Tiger Records and Chalice Palace music, Perfect is perhaps a tad overstated but nonetheless the disc holds it down for the most high. On “Absolute Blessings” featuring Sizzla, message and beat come together in perfect harmony. Without a doubt, this guy has pipes. His rub-a-dub remix of “Ain’t No Sunshine” is another stand out track, with a slightly different arrangement and lots of reverb, you’ll appreciate his version. “Son of Jamaica” is an interesting tune, part reggae part hip-hop its simplistic rhythm takes you back to the early ‘90s. What would a reggae album be without a weed anthem (“Marijuana we seh”), a rebel song (“Mi nah cut my Dread”) and a love song (“Family Man”)? By the album’s end however, it's hard to get a cohesive vibe from this album, there’s nothing necessarily wrong with it, but perhaps it's just not quite perfect. 3.5/5
Irievibrations, “Still One Drop”
Irievibrations Records
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Still One Drop is the debut album from Irievibrations producer Trio. With contributions from Sizzla (“African Chant”), Morgan Heritage (“Life to the Fullest”), Anthony B (“Throw it pon dem”) and Burro Banton (“Run the Streets Red”), to name a few, this really is a who’s who of reggae music. Whether its roots, dancehall, rocksteady, or hip-hop, this disc is the kind of reggae compilation you put on and just let it play. On “Rasta Lovin,” Mischu Laikah featuring Perfect, make the perfect pair on this conscious yet gentle love tune. There’s really nothing negative that can be said about this recording in terms of the quality of its production and diversity of its offering. On the flipside, you wish it provided a clear lead track or dancehall favorite. Still One Drop is a decent disc, but comes up a little short. 3/5
Delus and Konshens, “Modern Revolution”
Irievibrations Records
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
These are two Jamaican brothers named Delus and Konshens that have come together in the name of reggae to produce this album, Modern Revolution, which is a wonderful combination of righteous lyrics and a positive message. Produced by Irievibrations, it’s a solid mixture of reggae, roots, dancehall, and hip-hop. Right off the top, “So High,” “Positive Vibration (featuring Luciano)”, and “Caribbean Love” set the tone and completely draw you into their impeccable storytelling abilities. Standing 19 tracks in length, the album leaves no stone unturned. “Hands Across the World (featuring Iriepathie)” is also a standout track, not so much because of its uplifting message, but because you feel the sincerity in the brothers’ vocals. The only knock against Modern Revolution is that after a while, it all sort of sounds like one long song. It would have been nice to perhaps cut down some of the tracks, and diversify the riddim choices on this disc. It’s not quite a dancehall recording, and it’s not a roots recording. Ultimately, the variety on this disc is a negative point, but it’s still a solid effort. 3/5
Dubblestandart Lee “Scratch” Perry & Ari Up, "Return from Planet Dub
"
Collision Cause of Chapter 3
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Dubblestandart is no pup when it comes to records. Return from Planet Dub is the group’s 11th release and with Lee “Scratch” Perry and Ari Up lending their flavour to the album, it takes the whole UK “nu-dub” sound to the next level. This two-disc release begins with “Chase the Devil,” which is a classic dub-style track which is probably best enjoyed played loud at a bashment somewhere in the depths of the night. Other standout tunes include “Give Thanx & Praises (Megation 3), “Deadly Funny – Oxygen pt. 4, and "Surrender Dub." These tunes epitomize what happens when dub, drum and bass, and downtempo collide. Disc two is pretty much dub remixes of tracks from disc one. The key difference is the pace is taken down a few notches, like on “Chase the Devil Dub,” “Defending Rights & Justice/Island Girl Dub,” and “Wadada – Means Love.” This is the sort of album that needs to be blasted to truly be appreciated; otherwise, it’s a decent contribution to Dubblestandart’s legacy. 3/5
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Perfect, “Born Dead With Life”
Irievibrations Records
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
When an artist calls himself perfect that’s a lot to live up to. And while such accolades are subjective, this album does preach a pretty perfect Rasta message of consciousness. Greg Rose aka (Mr.) Perfect is a conscious reggae artist from Jamaica doing his best to keep reggae music alive and well. This 16-track album has an earnest message but there are really only a few tracks that stand out. “Smile” featuring Empress, “Unforgiveable” and “Unlock” are such three, with their solid riddims and anti-slavery and anti-oppression message. It might be a little too much to swallow for some, as there is no hiding his message, but this is reggae music at its purest. Towards the album’s end, “Black Seeds” and “WTC 9/11” really touch at your heart strings with Perfect’s vocals matching the seriousness of each song’s message. The latter song will especially make you think. Ultimately, Born Dead With Life is a serious album that perhaps could have benefited with a few lighter tracks to even out the melancholy tone but its message gets it a passing grade. 3/5
Various Artists, “A Reggae Tribute to the Police”
Shanachie
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Spirits In The Material World brings together some legendary reggae and rock artists to re-create classic tracks from the Police. The disc starts off with Junior Reid and his rock steady remake of “Synchronicity I,” which is then followed by “One World (Not Three)” performed by the Wailing Souls, a tune that proves the point that a reggae remix can make any song sound better. More popular Police songs like, “Every Breath You Take,” are performed by Joan Osborne, whose version is less on the pop tip, but more so a soulful rock-inspired re-dub. If you’re adventurous, you’ll like what she does with it. Hands down, Toots and the Maytals take on “De Doo Doo Doo De Daa Daa Daa” is the album's standout track. Not only is the arrangement completely different, so too is the vibe. With its ska riddim paired up to the Maytals unmistakeable vocals, it’s as though you’re hearing the song for the very first time. Lee “Scratch” Perry’s version of “Invisible Dub” is the perfect combination of dub and consciousness, but honourable mention must also be given to Gregory Isaacs’ “So Lonely.” There’s really no song that Isaacs can’t sing, and not make you want to rock away. This disc is one of the best cover albums of the year. 5/5
Daddy Rings, “The Most High”
Groove Attack
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Daddy Rings (Everold Dwyer) has been in the reggae game since the ‘90s but he probably remains relatively unknown. On The Most High, Rings lays down an album full of conscious reggae tunes that from start to finish place his name among a short list of artists doing their part to ensure that roots reggae stays planted on two feet. This album is just one big long positive vibe. From “Be Not Dismayed” to “Rise With Jah” to “Want To Be,” there are countless examples on this disc that seek to uplift rather than tear down. The Most High is the kind of album you put on get swept away. Rings’ vocal is incredibly inspirational, and pair nicely to the beats on the album. Towards its end, “Check Dis” and “Second To None” are a nice uptempo change of pace that breaks up the otherwise downtempo flow. 3/5
The Dynamics, “Version Excursions”
Groove Attack
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
On Version Excursion, The Dynamics put their own unique twist to covers that you’ve likely heard many times before, but not quite like this. This group’s sound can best be described as a fusion of pop, roots, disco, soul and rock. Wilson Pickett’s “Land Of 1000 Dances” is given a fresh spin, so too is “Rockit” by Herbie Hancock. Seriously, it’s not until halfway through each track that you actually notice that it’s a remake. And, that’s the brilliant thing about this group; they wonderfully merge the old with the new, turning classics upside down with modern interpretations. Their dub version of Madonna’s “Music” is probably the album’s standout tune with its wicked beat and creative production, it's just stellar. In addition to these classics, the album also includes covers of “Feel Like Making Love” (Roberta Flack), “Move On Up” (Curtis Mayfield) and “Whole Lotta Love” (Led Zeppelin) to name a few. This is the kind of disc you put on when you want to be taken away on a musical journey full of unexpected twists and turns. While such twists don’t always work, in this case, it does. 4/5
Cocoa Tea, “Biological Warfare”
Minor7Flat5
Reviewed by Cheryl Thompson
Biological Warfare is Cocoa Tea’s best album in years. It contains politically and socially conscious songs but also a lot of tunes that just make you want to move your feet. On the title track, a slow dub beat is paired perfectly to Tea’s silky smooth bravado. It is clear that he’s not just a singer, but a messenger too. But, it’s not all about roots, even on the dancehall-flavoured tracks like “Let The Dancehall” and “Give Dem” Tea is able to keep his message alive while making you move your hips. What you’ll love about this album is that it is complete; there are really no album-fillers or obvious attempts at radio play. You have to appreciate the tender love and care that was put into each song. “They Never Stop” towards the album’s end is also a standout tune, with its social commentary and staccato beat, it’s message makes you think and dance at the same time. Finally, “Rise Up” solidifies Tea’s genius ability to take you on a journey from Kinston, Jamaica to Chicago, Illinois under the banner of unity. Biological Warfare is one of the best reggae albums of the year. 5/5
Ras Myrhdak, “Prince Of Fyah,
Vol. 1”
Minor7Flat5
Prince of Fyah is Ras
Myrhdak’s debut album, produced by Brotherman alongside Lynford
“Fatta” Marshall. It is simply put one of the most inspirational
and socially conscious albums to come out of Jamaica in recent
years. Born Stephen Moulton, and a protégé of legendary roots
reggae soldier, Capleton, this album is roots, rock, and reggae at
its finest. Right off the bat, Myrhdak hits us with “Gunshots
Falling” and “Never Your Forget”, two rootsy, heavy baseline driven
tracks. While he may be a newcomer, Myrhdak has a powerful voice
and an alluring enthusiasm. Other standout tracks include “Global
Warning”, “Trod It Alone” and “Praise Tree”. Each song is not just
about a wicked beat, but lyrics with substance. Minor7Flat5 is
really at the forefront of reggae music keeping roots reggae alive
and well. Honourable mention must also be given to the album’s
background singers, Karlene Levy, Pam Hall, and Nicky Tucker
because if anyone knows anything about roots music, the
accompanying vocals are just as important as the lead. 5/5
Turbulence, "Do
Good"
Minor7flat5
Forget what you heard,
conscious reggae music is alive and well. Recorded 100% in
Kingston, Jamaica, Do Good is brought to you by a young
up-and-comer, Singjay Turbulence. An artist who grew up in the
poverty-stricken area of St. Andrew, Turbulence' music is all
about the positivity. On "Freedom Train" (featuring
Luciano), positive lyrics are paired to an alluring riddim. Then,
on "I Believe", you'll be nodding your head as you
take in Turbulence's message of peace, love and praises to Jah,
whether you're a Rasta or not, you can't deny the
earnestness of his lyrics, and certainty of his message. Other
stand out tracks include "We Deserve" and "Move
On" (featuring Higher Trod Family), with their dancehall
infused beat paired nicely to roots reggae's consciousness.
Finally, if you're ever wondered what it's like to get
high, the psychedelic beat of "Marihuana" (Northern
Lights Remix), and harsh vocal chanting from Turbulence, paints a
descriptive picture. 3/5
Damon Dash Group
Sizzla has been producing spiritually and politically conscious reggae music since the 90s. On The Overstanding, he puts an exclamation mark on his living legacy, letting the world know why reggae will never die. Although people might have some doubts about him, now that he's under the Damon Dash Group, known on the street for producing commercially driven hip-hop, as opposed to giving straight praises to Rastafari, to Sizzla's credit, he's letting his music silence any and all critics about his authenticity as a messenger of Jah. For instance, on "Break Free" and "Take Myself Away" he sings of the praises he's received but also how important it is to follow your dreams and make something of yourself. These tunes also have nice easy skanking riddims. Also, several tracks on The Overstanding, like "Solid As A Rock," "Beautiful Day" and "Thank You For Loving Me" have lyrics that will touch you, but in his own special way, Sizzla also knows how to pair heartfelt lyrics with a solid beat. So, inasmuch as reggae music is supposed to teach, it is also supposed to make you want to dance, and that's exactly what The Overstanding accomplishes. 4/5
VP Records
by Cheryl Thompson
As the 35th edition of the Strictly The Best (STB) series, this disc is a decent continuation of a tried and true compilation set. With tracks from some of the hottest acts in reggae music today, like Sean Paul ("All Out"), Bounty Killer ("From Them Dis"), and Capleton ("Hits Pon Toppa Hits"), STB is a solid dancehall album. While it would have been nice to hear some of the tracks in a non-stop flow, it is nonetheless the kind of album that makes you want to dance. Alozade's "Bad Out Deh," Buju Banton's "Try Offa You" and Bounty Killer's "Hunting" deserve honorable mention for their infectious beats, and original rude bwoy vocals. 3/5
VP Records
by Cheryl Thompson
While Strictly The Best (STB) volume 35 is by and large a dancehall compilation, volume 36 is a straight up roots reggae mixtape. From the disc's first track, "Always On My Mind" (Da'Ville), with its mello lover's rock beat paired perfectly to soft endearing vocals, STB is one continuous reggae love-fest. Other stand-out tracks include Bitty McLean's "Real Thing," Wayne Wonder's "Love & Affection," and Morgan Heritage's "Love You Right." Whether you play this volume at a party or keep it on to set the mood at night, it's the perfect compilation of love songs and positive vibes. Also, this disc features a wicked remix of Canadian songstress Divine Brown's "Old Skool Love." There's not much to complain about on this album; it pays proper homage to lover's rock reggae, a genre that will never die. 4.5/5
Blazing Flames Records
by Cheryl Thompson
This non-stop compilation features some of reggae's finest keeping the music of Jah alive and well. You'll hear from Buju Banton ("Brighter Tomorrow"), Sizzla ("Just Be Clean" and "Love and Affection") and Luciano ("You Bring Me Joy") to name a few. But, what makes this album unique is that each of these tracks features six of the best reggae, lovers rock and conscious riddims that make reggae music what it is. A few other standouts on this album include Dasia's "Down Here" a politically conscious track paired nicely to an enchanting reggae beat, and Halfpint's "If Love Is Alright With You," a sweet love song that'll put you in the mood for one thing and one thing only - love. The only knock against this compilation is that too many of the riddims are repetitive and after 22 tracks you're ready for it to end. 3/5
Blazing Flames Records
by Cheryl Thompson
Dancehall Xplosion: The Remix, mixed by Jazzy T, is a non-stop compilation of some of the wickedest dancehall riddims of the past few years. "Would You" by Cecile and "This Boy" by Madd Anju, get the album off to a fresh start with their heavy bass-driven beats and catchy lyrics. They're followed closely by tracks from Elephant Man, Bounty Killer, and Spragga Benz ("Fire," "Which One," and "Hall Of Fame"), three of the leading dancehall artists of the past few years. As far as reggae mixtapes go, this isn't the best compilation of the last few years, but it's decent enough to liven up any party. 3/5
Dub Syndicate, "The Rasta Far I"
