'Link Up': A review of "Powerlink" by Amandla

One common destination. Although we may not look at things related to music in such a manner -- and instead are often ultimately steered in the direction of or cleared away from by -- the final product, there certainly is a lot to be said for just having good planning and idea development when it comes to music. There are the obvious examples in regards to the absolute basics - as far as with whom to record and where to do it. And while many of these things can be quite random, just as they can be in almost every aspect of life, sometimes when they reach a level above stumbling upon what are the crystallized results of a chance encounter and become something which really involves a great deal of preparation and follow through, the output can be just as organic, and arguably even more impressive. Currently, looking at the current landscape of Reggae music, if you wanted a really good example of this, I would definitely point you in the direction of the assembled production machine that is the Zion I Kings collective. What they do and have already done to date, in my opinion, represents some of the finest idea development and full-on good common sense that we've seen during not only the modern era of the genre, but perhaps EVER. Along with fine choices in the artists with whom they choose to record (which may or not be set to include the great Lloyd Brown sometime later this year), they keep a very active release schedule and the group's latest undertaking, a riddim album series (The Songbird Riddim, in stores now), is yet another wonderful step from the ZIK. Now, where that union includes the bringing together of three different labels, the case which we take a look at today is a union of great musical minds to come together to form a fully functional band. While such groups are not today in Reggae music what they once were, in terms of numbers, amongst more hardcore fans of the genre definitely names such as Virgin Islands bands Midnite and Bambú Station are of the household variety. And personally, I do have to say that there exists some different type of trait that the music has when you have a set of individuals who come together, specifically, to make music for the whole and for the successes of the whole. It seems to give the material a bit of a 'fuller' feeling at times.  

Amandla

Meet the fullness that is Amandla. While it remains to be seen if they go on to reach the levels of the aforementioned Midnite and/or Bambú Station, on paper the Amandla Band would appear to have each and everything they need to succeed. Like what? First of all, if you read my work to any degree, you're definitely going to know the name of Tuff Lion (who, coincidentally actually played on and had a full tune on the Songbird Riddim) (have I mentioned that it is in stores now?). The masterful guitar player/producer/arranger/vocalist/engineer/writer has been a favourite of mine from a very longtime now and so has the downright monstrous catalog of music to which he has contributed. If you look into that catalog, directly, you'll find the work of an apparent favourite of the Lion's by the name of Ras Iba. Along with delivering what we've already called a modern classic in the form of his most recent release, "Matsahyel" ["He has found Jah!"] from 2010, the amazingly gifted Cruzan born chanter has been around for quite awhile, officially on albums going back to 2003 (when he debuted with "Jah Lion: Children of The Nile" (on which Tuff Lion played extensively)), and has had a fantastic career. Also, if you've spent enough time here, the name Toussaint shouldn't be a new one to you either (well, it shouldn't be "new" to you in anyway) as the dazzling US born 'Soul Roots' singer has also become a favourite of ours. His MIGHTY "Black Gold" release, also from 2010, is a project which we've discussed at length and it also featured the work of Tuff Lion. Now imagine that all three joined the same band. They have and it is a very big deal and now the Amandla band releases their very own album.

The fittingly titled, "Powerlink". The Amandla Band is different. They don't necessarily have a 'built-in' lead singer, like a Vaughn Benjamin or Jalani Horton and instead there're five different vocalists who rotate and do the honours. Along with Tuff Lion, Ras Iba and Toussaint The Liberator, there is also Burnie T (who was apparently born in Dominica) as well as US born YahKali - both of whom sing, write and play various instruments throughout the project. There're also Jah Derek, Leon Cotter, Akhil Gapal and Brian Paulding adding additional instrumentation and Empresses Melinda, Tonya and Nephertiti, who sing backing vocals. That is a HEALTHY unit of talent and it is a quality which is exhibited throughout their album. Last year Amandla actually gave us a taste of what was to come by pushing a six track EP release of the same name (all of the tunes on that EP have subsequently made it onto the final album). The EP, in another fine exhibition of common sense, displayed a single tune sang by each of the band's five vocalists and an instrumental piece (I did say that Tuff Lion was involved) and, if I needed even more of a reason at the time, and I absolutely did not, when I put it all together it well made me interested in hearing a full Amandla band album and it didn't take very long at all to materialize. Unsurprisingly, what I heard on the EP was a great deal of musical chemistry and, as I said, three of the main principals had a history in working with one another and while I wasn't incredibly familiar with the work of either YahKali or Burnie T, my research on them leads me in the direction of thinking that they're both those wholly necessary types of individuals who, although they may not get their deserved credit most times, if they all suddenly stopped making music, people like You and I would notice IMMEDIATELY. Put all of that together and, again - at least on paper - you have the foundation laid for one big project. The question is whether or not the full album fulfills on those prospects. Yes it does. Let's talk about it! 

Ras Iba

With the different vocalists, "Powerlink" very much has the feel of an extremely well carried out compilation. This album actually gave me the mind to go back and enjoy a previous and related set from a few years back, "Wadada: The First Itation" ["Burnin away. Burnin away! Can't keep babylon from burnin away"], and just like that release, where almost all of the songs were written by the same person, despite having different artists on the mic, this album has a nice level of cohesiveness and, essentially, is a compilation specifically put together for the purpose of creating an album. Because it is Ras Iba who gets us started on "Powerlink", we'll take a look at all of his songs first. His first and the album's first effort, 'Arise' is also one of both of their finest. Iba may just be one of all of Reggae's best writers at the moment (and if you want to hear a master class of lyrics in Reggae music, definitely pick up "Matsahyel", which is one of the most intelligent releases that I've ever heard) and he uses that major skill here to near perfection. This track is one constructed to inspire people through difficult times, in particular, and it goes to a powdery level of detail, especially in its latter stages. There's also a nice vibes to the tune and while it may be a little heavier of a song than I was expecting for an opener (and I mean that in a good way), it ranks near the best material that you'll find from anyone on the album. Iba later returns with the delightful 'Afrikan Queen' which (does sound like a typical opener) is an obvious tribute to the amazing Afrikan Women of the world. This piece simply instills a great feeling in everyone fortunate enough to hear it and definitely adds a nice dimension to the album. If this song were not here, it would have been the type whose absence I would have lamented because it is necessary. Still, my own favourite song of Ras Iba's on "Powerlink" is his final and the song which was on the EP, the MAMMOTH 'Herb & Music'. 

"Music was always part of my life

From in Mama womb, hearing her voice

Hearing her sing to me 

Hearing my Daddy playing the bass for me

Natural in I destiny

Music kept I man busy

And the way from jailhouse and cemetery 

Herb and music saved my life

That's no lie

Herb and music 

Give thanks for the drum line

Herb and music saved my life

That's no lie

Herb and music

Give thanks for the riddim

Empress Mari -

Such a mystical spice

Secret flowers bloom in the dark of night

She help I reconnect and align 

She help I and I open up mi third eye

And help me to look inside

To look inside -

And see the source of life: SELASSIE I"

Ras Iba speaks on the two entities which helped to make him the man and the musician he is today and, if you're a fan (and you are), you have to be just as thankful because when at his very best, Iba is also one of the best as is shown by his three songs on this album.

Tuff Lion

For his part, Tuff Lon also dazzles on his pieces on "Powerlink". This album really presented a nice opportunity to hear the somewhat vocally reclusive Lion (of course I LOVE his instrumental work, but he's also a very strong vocalist) on a trio of selections which should also be a big selling point for more hardcore fans for this album as well. His first, the album's second, is either his best or his second best, but it is fantastic in either case, 'Ready'. This VERY clever relationship song speaks on the most important aspect of a full unity in a positive and functioning connection. And (because I'm an over thinker) I also take this one in a different direction towards general friendships. If you're going to be married to someone or in a relationship, it takes both of you to make it work ALL OF THE TIME and the same is true in being [good] friends with someone. It is a unique idea and an even more unique delivery of it on a big tune. The Lion returns on the just as impressive social commentary 'Some Have' (his tune on the EP). This composition is very straight forward, but it makes the most of itself and Tuff Lion talks about people basically helping someone else out who really needs it. The song pinnacles when the maestro kicks up the intensity and delivers a big verse later on which is not to be missed. 

"Too many helpless people deh pon di street

Ah push dem life inna cart, with no food to eat

No government nah help dem inna dem plate

Wonder how does it look inna His Majesty sight

Rich man pon di top

Poor man at di bottom

Dem mussi fi get tough fi dem foundation

Table ahgo turn, change of di situation-

Bringing bout di poor man revolution!"

And Tuff Lion's final song is also something to remember - it's actually called 'Something To Remember' - which is an excellent and somewhat funny lover's piece on which he… offers a very, very special token to remember him by to his special lady. This song lightens things up a bit and I'm sure that it is a big song in a live performance as well.

YahKali

YahKali is next and I have to say that, from his three songs, I was VERY impressed. Coming in with three very well known talents and two lesser known ones to my ears, I finish this album thinking that I'd like to hear more of his work, in particular, at some point in the future because he is excellent. By the slimmest of margins, his first song, 'As I Am' is my pick of the best of his lot. Along with possibly having the best riddim behind it on the whole of "Powerlink" (BEAUTIFUL!), this is a powerful and serene praising tune - sounding something like you might hear from Luciano, actually. 

"In this mystery of life, I need Your guiding hand, oh Jah

You are my strength in I going out and coming in

Though You seem so far away, yet deep within

And when I go astray, You lead me back again

As I breath in, I find the I within my heart

And as breathe out, I feel Your presence all around

As I sit and contemplate  in this earthly struggle

Oh Jah - give I courage and protect I and I hustle"

Everything about this one is a winner and it resonates well beyond its completion. It also has a great feel to it and you hear a small variation of the sound throughout, making for one dynamic piece (and I still call it serene - it is both) and a most memorable presentation as well. YahKali returns with another sizable offering in 'Debt In Slavery' which continues to impress (especially lyrically) as does his third contribution to the album, 'Same Old Story' which is a kind of a love/relationship song (seeing a familiar sequence here?). Again, this is an entertaining and compelling song and, like I said, these three as a whole make me interested in hearing so much more of his work as, particularly placed in this context -- where I was SO much looking forward to hearing three other people who were not him -- YahKali demands attention within all of that brilliance. And I don't want to pass over it quickly either, 'Same Old Story' is a very good song!

Toussaint

The Liberator, himself (curiously absent from the Songbird Riddim), is up next and to introduce himself on "Powerlink" he offers my single favourite song on the entire record and in the process gives a remarkable tribute to Jean Jacques 'Dessalines'. A lesser known leader of the Haitian Revolution (lesser known than Toussaint's own namesake, Toussaint Louverture), Dessalines becomes the subject of this unforgettable tune and I suppose it should have clicked with me at some earlier point in time that someone who calls themselves "TOUSSAINT", might have Haitian blood and, whether the singer does or does not doesn't diminish from this huge song. His second song on the album, 'See It In You' (which I believe was written by Burnie T) is Toussaint's relationship type of song and it is a solid one and he later concludes with the crucial 'You Got It'.

"Let your mind go free

Relax, ah yeah

Let your troubles go 

That burden's far too heavy to carry alone

No time fi worry

Can't live life in a hurry see-

Always worried - no

No!

You got it

I got it

You got it

I got it

Brewing within, under your skin

What it takes to turn boys to men

Fighting the sin that we living in"

I was probably most looking forward to hearing what Toussaint did on this album, given his dynamicity as a vocalist, and he does not even come close to disappointing. And YES, I'm damn looking forward to that next big album from the singer ["nobody knows what I did today. Only me. Me and The Most High!"]. 

Burnie T

Lastly is Burnie T who plays a significant role on every tune on "Powerlink" (usually as a drummer) and gets his batch (biggup Batch) of tunes started with a love song which appears to be quite personal to him, 'My Love Reads Like An Open Book'. I'll tell you something that happened to me when I started listening to this song: I heard it and I decided that it was okay. It was decent, but not a highlight for me and then, while doing something else and listening to another song, I'm still singing the chorus for that song. So definitely don't pass a judgment here from a cursory listen, because you're likely to miss something that you'll like if you do. Burnie mines and Reggae-fies a classic song from the legendary singer Nat King Cole and does a respectable job with 'L-O-V-E', but to my opinion Burnie rides on his final offering to the album, 'Can't Keep A Good Man Down', which is 'officially' Burnie T's track, but actually is a song from THE AMANDLA BAND. Tuff Lion, Ras Iba and YahKali seem to join in at points for a dramatic and likely signature moment from this album. Biggup Burnie T who, as I said, was very important in the construction of this project as his, alongside Tuff Lion and YahKali, are the only names to appear on every song on "Powerlink" for doing something. The album wraps up with a GOLDEN and lively instrumental, 'As It Is', which is a definitive highlight in my opinion. I really enjoy when labels and artists and producers choose to include things like this on otherwise vocal projects, because it really adds to the EXPERIENCE of listening to an album and adds so much to vibes. Again, a very good idea.

Overall, while I am certainly tempted to give this one a more conditional recommendation, I don't think I'm going to based on its quality. Listening to it, I think that "Powerlink" is the type of an album which can really be appreciated by any fan, new or old, of Reggae music, but it will just as surely mean more to more experienced fans. Tuff Lion, Ras Iba and Toussaint on a project together is a very interesting set of circumstances that are actualized exceedingly well throughout the album and, subsequently, also becomes fitting introductions to the work of Burnie T and YahKali. Furthermore, there is such a prevalent interrelation between these songs so while they do stand alone quite well as single songs from different vocalists, they come together to make one fantastic album as well. In "Powerlink", Amandla comes together and, collectively, performs one giant stroke of genius and with a group like this, together and as solos, you have to continue to keep an eye on what they'll do next. Very well done. 

Rated: 4.35/5

Amandla Productions

2013

CD + Digital

Review #444

Check It #51: Crowned Champion

'Champion' by Chronixx [ZJ Heno]

It is quickly getting to the point where all one needs to do to speak of the actual quality of any song is to include the words "by Chronixx" after the song's title. Such is the case with the GORGEOUS tune, 'Champion'… by Chronixx. Growing in giant steps, each and every time out, here we find Chronixx reaching the equally shining and somewhat Jazzy Passionate Riddim from ZJ Heno (which is also currently available, unsurprisingly sans this tune) with a giant track which is already in the process, like all of his songs, of doing a major damage and you can expect many similar things from him in the years to come as Chronixx genuinely appears to be someone whose skills are absolutely without a ceiling.

"Mama dry yuh tears and move yuh hand from yah head

Never wear a frown because Jah Jah no dead"

Digital

{Great cover!} 

'Jah Over All Things' by Romain Virgo [Juke Boxx Productions/VP Records]

In the first of two very large tunes from the venerable Shane Brown his just as respected Juke Boxx imprint, young star, Romain Virgo, checks in with yet another mighty effort for his ever-growing lot, the triumphant 'Jah Over All Things'. With an energetic and enthused and a giant vocal display, Virgo continues his own most brilliant journey and, in the process, makes a tune not to be forgotten anytime soon.

"Dem come wid gun wid extra clip -

But dem trigga stick

DEM THROW DEM OIL AND GREASE UPON DI ROAD DEM KNOW WI TRODDING BUT WI NEVER SLIP!

JAH JAH A MI GRIP!

So mi neva fall, always stand tall"

Digital 

'To The Limit' by Tarrus Riley [Juke Boxx Productions/VP Records]

Also a pretty good indication of the quality of any song would be its name attached to something like "by Tarrus Riley" and the big man returns to Juke Boxx as well with his own very large offering 'To The Limit'. A versatile love song, 'To The Limit' is just top notch work with an extra bit of something special that you've come to expect from, arguably, the biggest star in Roots Reggae music today. 

Digital  

'Good Good Girl' by Mavado & Chino [Di Genius Records]

Two constant staples of Di Genius Records, Mavado and Chino, teamed up to push the… different 'Good Good Girl' for Stephen McGregor a month or two ago and while the reaction was mixed, definitely, and I was personally mixed - I always like to give someone credit for experimenting or trying something different in the short term (if you do that on an entire album, however, then I may have a problem with that) (unless your name is Busy Signal or something like that) and this tune was precisely that from two of the current biggest names in the Dancehall. 

Digital  

"What A Lot of Love" by Alaine [ZJ Chrome]

As we told you about from yesterday (or earlier today or whenever that was), Christopher Martin is coming with his own EP from Chrome and also set to do the same is the consistently breath-taking Alaine who is up next with her own three set release, "What A Lot of Love". Along with the downright magical title track on the Cardiac Keys Riddim, also included is the lovely 'Bye Bye Bye' from the Cardiac Strings and 'Up' from the Cardiac Bass, which may've just been the best of the trio (by the slimmest of margins) (okay, if I had to pick, I'd go with the title track but that may just be because it is the most fresh in my mind). Alaine's name is another one which virtually guarantees quality and if you haven't been paying attention to her output in the past couple of years or so - here's a nice and cool way to become reacquainted.

Digital  

'Tomorrow Loves You' by Gappy Ranks [Hot Coffee Music]

UK star, Gappy Ranks, wants you to know that 'Tomorrow Loves You' and he's using his own Hot Coffee Music label to make the point with the Bost & Bim produced track. Oddly enough, this song actually originates [I THINK] to back from last year (towards the middle of the year) and there was a video (which Bredz may've been nice enough to put in here somewhere) and it was a big deal and it should have been - it was excellent. So why it only now reaches digital single is interesting - HOWEVER it should be noted that Gappy (and probably VP Records, who distributes) probably has the intentions on making the tune the first single from the DJ's forthcoming new album, "Shining Hope" which is set for a September release.

Digital 

'I'm A Solja' by Delus [I Strong Records]

The quite well reliable Delus is back for I Strong Records with a tune which I think I've heard before, 'I'm A Solja'. Delus may not get the same level of attention that his brother, superstar Konshens, does, but that surely isn't an indication of his own skill because, somewhat quietly, he has been churning out excellent music for the past few years. This HEAVY effort may be one of his better selections recently and, hopefully Delus can give us his own full solo album sometime in the second half of 2013 or in the first of 2014. Big tune.

Digital

{Note: Despite its cover, apparently the official (and searchable) title of this song is 'I'm A Solja'}

'Inna Half' by Buju Banton [Markus Records]

Unsurprisingly 'Inna Half', from the great Buju Banton has gone onto become a very well regarded track across the Reentry Riddim via Markus Records (which is headed by Buju's son, Markus Myrie). And just as obviously, it has been given its own, single, releasing as well. Though in this case, I would well recommend you check out the entire set which features the likes of Beenie Man, Agent Sasco, D'Angel, Delly Ranx and others (like I-Octane) joining Gargamel on what is easily one of the best Dancehall riddims from 2013 so far.

Digital

'Defend It' by Mad Cobra [JRK Music]

And finally on my radars this week is a tune I've well told you about previously, but one which continues to rise to my opinion, it is the SCATHING 'Defend It' by SCALDING Dancehall veteran, Mad Cobra. MAD! This song may've been recently deposed as my current favourite (by Sizzla's ridiculous 'Chant Dem Down'), but it remains a song which I hear every single day on the workout playlist and if you love crazy and aggressive Dancehall music (and you do), 'Defend It' is just candy to your ears.

Digital

Coming Soon 

"Reggae Gold 2013" [VP Records]

'Lighters Up' featuring Mavado & Popcaan by Snoop Lion

'Jah No Partial' featuring Johnny Osbourne by Major Lazer

'Body' by Sean Paul

'Fi Di Jockey' by Aidonia

'Kotch' by RDX

'Wine Slow' by Gyptian

'Gal Gimme Bun' by I-Octane

'Bad Girl' by Konshens

'One Shot' by Angela Hunte

'Fight This Feeling' by Beres Hammond & Shaggy

'Perfect Love Song' by Morgan Heritage

'Let's Get Silly' by Queen Ifrica

'Gimme Likkle One Drop' by Tarrus Riley

'You & Me' by Busy Signal

'Tuesday On The Rocks' by Kes The Band

'Love, Love, Love' featuring Busy Signal by Etana

Here are the (very interesting) cover and (expected) tracklist from the new "Reggae Gold" album for 2013, from VP Records. There isn't much in the way of surprises, although seeing Kes with a tune here is probably the biggest shock, although their song was excellent from last year. And there you go.

Releases on July 15

CD + Digital

Sizzla Kalonji [Bread Back Productions]

Reggae legend, Sizzla Kalonji is dealing a pair of older tunes courtesy of his most frequent stop these days, Bread Back Productions (new album, "The Messiah", in stores now), 'Girls Dem Screaming' and 'Ghetto Youths Time'. While neither are the best songs that you're likely to ever hear (from ANYONE), the latter is a better than decent and quite infectious tune from earlier this year/later last year and one which features Kalonji alongside King David. Biggup Bread Back who is, apparently, in the process of now officially releasing everything he's ever done. 

Releases on June 11

Digital  

The Genkidama Riddim [Skyman Selecta Productions]

You may remember Skyman Selecta from having done last year's Gipsy Woman Riddim and now they're back with a new set (which I was almost sure had already been released), the Genkidama. Unlike its cooler predecessor, the Genkidama is almost a kind of an amplified old school Dancehall track with a whole heap of things going on. What it does share with the Gipsy Woman, however, is an excellent roster of vocalists who take their turn on the new piece. On its album the Genkidama begins with songs from Turbulence, Perfect Giddimani, Spectacular, Lutan Fyah and Teflon! Also joining are the likes of Leah Rosier, Jah Jah Man and Protoje's ultra-talented twin brother (not really) Straïka D (alongside Farfad, who actually had a tune on the Gipsy Woman alongside Tiwony).

Digital

'My Woman Left Me' by Elijah Prophet [DJ Smurf Music]

And lastly this week is a tune which I have not heard at all, but was so happy to see in existence (even though it's probably about some really bad news), 'My Woman Left Me' by Elijah Prophet. A personal favourite of mine, the Prophet has had an album, "Happy Days", which has been in the 'coming soon' stages for a couple of years now (and maybe even longer), but was never officially released and he hasn't been very active while we've waited for that set. So any new song of his is going to get my attention and, being produced by DJ Smurf, I'm expecting something big.

Releases on June 18

Digital

Coming Soon #66: Here They Come!

"Here Come The Kings" by Morgan Heritage [VP Records]

While it may already have been released by VP Records (because they do stuff a week earlier now), the official release date of the most anticipated "Here Come The Kings", the first studio album from the second family of Reggae music, Morgan Heritage, in a few hundred years is still a week off so it makes the top half of this post and is its first entrant. As I've said in the past, although I certainly have not been the biggest fan of the Morgans throughout the years, I was really looking forward to this one because my ears have been open to their music over the past few years and I'm looking forward to 'applying' the changes and seeing if they stick. So far, listening through it just a bit, I am kind of impressed, but I'll tell you about that, fully, in a few days.

Releases on June 7/10/11
CD + Digital

"Never Surrender My Faith" by Lutan Fyah [Jah Warrior Records]

Next we have something that has been on radars for quite some time as Lutan Fyah reaches Jah Warrior Records from out of the UK with a new album, "Never Surrender My Faith". Once upon a time, not incredibly long ago, Jah Warrior was much more active and did full albums for the likes of Jah Mason, the great Peter Broggs and others and, if I recall correctly, it was in their plans to deliver a full set for Lutan Fyah as well. This was maybe a decade ago, however, and while the Fyah has gone on to do great things, I kind of had forgotten about this project. But it is a 'better late than never' concept at work and now it's up and coming. Listening through some of the clips, it does sound, primarily, like an older version of the artist at points, and I actually do recognize a song or two, but I am definitely looking forward to hearing the completed project… after all of these years.

Releases on June 10
Digital

"All Or Nothing" by Stein [Fox Fuse]

Reigning World's Angriest Man, Einstein steps forward with his debut album via the increasingly useful Fox Fuse (who I used to know as a publicist, but has turned very active in doing their own releases as well) (Dancehall and Soca mostly, but they do other things as we'll tell you about in a second), "All Or Nothing". Okay, if you don't know much about the DJ, what I'll tell you is that he is, in terms of full talent, maybe one of the most gifted relatively recent finds of Dancehall music. He's very good. But you can expect his talent to come pouring through in a very, very aggressive package and just listening through the clips here, "All Or Nothing" sounds precisely how you would imagine it does - really electric and pulsing, but as I said, don't allow the vibes here to detract from an amazing talent. On a quick glance, the album appears to be a nice mix of new songs and known and tried material and I have no problem with this at all. Biggup Stein, definitely biggup FF and I hope it does very well for them - check it out.

Releases on June 25

Digital

{Note: Is released in both Explicit and Edited versions, so choose wisely}

"Frequency" by Jahcoustix [IrieVibrations Records]

German veteran, Jahcoustix, is also back with a much anticipated new set, courtesy of the always dependable IrieVibrations, "Frequency". Jahcoustix is one of those people who I always try to make a point of to listen to just a bit more and, much like the Morgans, he's right on time with the new album. Also, in terms of getting my attention (because I'm sure that's (not at all) so important) he couldn't have chosen a finer outfit than IrieVibrations, who stays on radars, particularly recent in what they've done with the likes of Luciano and Anthony B. I'm expecting similar results from this one and that is especially the case with a supporting cast of the flaming Kabaka Pyramid, Raphael and the great Horace Andy and Apple Gabriel, respectively. We'll probably slap a review on this one, but don't wait for me - get your own copy of "Frequency" when it reaches. Oh and I have a REALLY good feeling about this album for whatever that's worth.

Releases on June 14
CD + Digital

"Public Secret" by Yasus Afari [Fox Fuse]

Fox Fuse is back and this time they're bringing a big-time veteran as venerable Dub Poet, Yasus Afari is up with a brand new album of his own, the already well regarded "Public Secret". I think that, inherently, it is a pretty good idea to work with a label that either was or still is a publicist outfit as well and this album may be a shining example of that as the first single [I THINK], 'Wine Pon Paper' has already done well and when I saw it on the tracklist, its popularity kind of began to make more sense - he was leading it into an album. You know what you're getting into when it comes to the work of Afari, but "Public Secret" does sound a bit more varied than what I'm accustomed to hearing from him. But, as always, make up your own mind when you pick it up.

Releases on June 11

Digital

"Mascareigne" by Ras Ricky [LSFM Music Group]

A name I haven't heard in a minute - talented and colourful Seychellois chanter, Ras Ricky, is back with what I think is his second full album to date, "Mascareigne". Ricky makes this type of mix of Dancehall and Roots Reggae (with considerably more of the former than the latter), but when it is on the Dancehall side, it is very intense, almost like the style of FWI Dancehall from a few years back (biggup Admiral T and Krys and Daly) and it appears to have remained so through the new album. However, there're some slower pieces in the album's latter stages which, to my early opinion, may just highlight "Mascareigne" (especially the closer, 'Selassie Love'). Definitely looking forward to the entire set when it reaches and you should join me in that.

Releases on June 14

CD + Digital

"Reggae Road Block" by Christopher Martin [CR203]

And quickly (because it's probably going to be posted out of order) (biggup Bredz), check out the new EP of world's luckiest man, Christopher Martin, via Chrome, "Reggae Road Block". The five track release features well known tunes from the vocalist through the label including the title track, 'I'm There', 'Paper Loving', 'Cheaters Prayer' and its remix alongside US hip-hopper Jim Jones.

Releases tomorrow or today… whenever this gets posted

Digital

"The Rebel" by Danielle Di [Tad's Records]

Speaking of EP's - also taking that route is colourful veteran Danielle Di for Tad's Records with the legendary Taxi Gang on board for "The Rebel" so named after her very popular tune. This set is actually eight tracks and nearly an hour in length and, to add even more of an attraction (if the cover isn't enough), Danielle isn't alone and, in fact, has brought in a stellar group of talent including Gramps Morgan, of course Cherine Anderson [twice] and ageless ace DJ, Shabba Ranks. Danielle has come quite a ways from being a chunk of eye candy who happened to do music (and she's still that), so while she'll never be confused with the most active of names, her skills in recent times have certainly caught up with… the rest of her and as a not so wise man once said - "this should be good!".

Releases on June 11

Digital

The Shack Riddim [Bassrunner Productions]

Bassrunner is back with a GORGEOUS and DELIGHTFUL new kind of old-school tinged Dancehall riddim, the Shack. When I first heard this thing, it just made me smile and I think it was an excellent idea to steer things in this direction and yet another fine piece of planning from the label who has proved themselves to be very impressive over the years. Also good planning was the roster of vocalists which includes Gappy Ranks, Ziggi Recado, Million Stylez alongside Rebellious, Etzia, Red Fox, New Kingston and a guy with no vowels in his name.

Releases on June 7

Digital

The Raw Cut Riddim [Chimney Records]

The consistently impressive Chimney Records is back with the official releasing of their latest composition, the beautifully intense Raw Cut Riddim. Despite its initial sound, if you pay close attention, you may notice just how versatile this track is and, despite not changing its base much throughout the album, the Raw Cut actually does multiple things for multiple names. The versatility reaches its zenith when the track is placed in the hands of Konshens who DESTROYS it with a single track in two forms, 'Anyweh'. Throughout - you'll find double tunes from a variety of stars, but their songs are just changed in the moment - Konshens really changes everything in delivering a 'gun version' and 'party version' of the same song. Joining Mr. Mental Maintenance (new DVD, "Live In Uganda", in stores now) are big names such as Agent Sasco, Mavado, Ele, Christopher Martin and even Tarrus Riley (told you it was versatile) and Sean Paul as Chimney makes a big statement for Dancehall Riddim Album of the Year with this one.

Releases on today/tomorrow

Digital

The Brooklyn Riddim [21st Hapilos]

The Brooklyn Riddim is up next via the production end of digital distribution monster (amongst every thing else they do), 21st Hapilos. Although a bit on the Poppish side, I do really like how this piece was carried out (I said I like it, I didn't say I was surprised) (I'm not - considering the source) and the track is also given to some very talented vocalists as well. Probably the biggest name here (to You and I) is Khari Kill, but the Brooklyn also features the likes of Rayvon (big tune), Noah Power (who likely has the finest tune in his 'Word Hard'), the aforementioned Red Fox, Screechie Dan and others.

Releases on today/tomorrow

Digital

"Labwork Vol. 3" [Di Genius Productions]

Superstar producer, Stephen 'Di Genius' McGregor is back with the third installment of his running compilation series, "Labwork" and, as usual, the jam packed album features a great deal of excellent material. Such is the state of someone when they have songs like this… just kind of laying around to make an album, with twenty-five songs on it, whenever they want. As usual, "Labwork Vol. 3" features the 'usual suspects'  with Chino, Laden, Bramma, Aidonia, Mavado, Busy Signal, Agent Sasco, Ele and Di Genius himself leading the way.

Releases on June 25

CD + Digital

"One Voice" by Aidonia [Black Spyda Records]

And lastly, coming soon this week is a project from the aforementioned Aidonia via Black Spyda, "One Voice". I'm fairly sure that this was also a mixtape or something like that and now they've gone and packaged it up as a full digital release with ten tracks on it. I'm nowhere near as big of a fan of Aidonia's that I used to be but, when at his best, his talent with words is one which needs a new scale on which to be measured because he has very little in the way of equals.

Releases on today/tomorrow

Digital

In Stores Now

"Moment Idéal" by Yaniss Odua [Caan Dun Music]

Supremely gifted chanter from out of Madinina, Yaniss Odua, returns with his very first album from since his last album, the BEAUTIFUL "Moment Idéal". I've always had a healthy respect for the skills of the popular Odua and, at least as an album, I'd probably say that "Moment Idéal" ranks as his finest piece of work to date (but I'll have to go back to verify that more) (and you know I'm well looking forward to doing that!). Having worked with big, big names in the past, Odua keeps that trend going as well, this time around tapping Richie Spice and again linking with the brilliant Tiken Jah Fakoly.

CD + Digital

The Arise & Shine Riddim [Weedy G Soundforce]

Weedy G Soundforce continues to impress with a mighty impact and this time around, for the first time, they're doing it on an even larger stage as their new release, the Arise & Shine Riddim, the Swiss powerhouse links up with VP Records' distribution arm, VPAL (who do multiple albums on this post today). To mark the occasion (apparently), they've also stepped up the quantity as the A&S comes in a giant twenty-one track package. As for the quality, however, they just don't have much in the way of room to improve and, while a bit slower and definitely from the older school this time around, the Arise & Shine is exactly what you've come to expect from the label over the past few years. It also is WHO you should expect as Weedy G brings together a fine group of artists including man of the moment, Sizzla Kalonji, Agent Sasco, Skarra Mucci, Teacha Dee, Grindsman and label staple, Perfect Giddimani, who not only brings two tunes on this track, but is also the man behind the next piece we have to tell you about.

Digital

The Barriers Riddim [Giddimani Records]

The aforementioned unpredictable firebrand, Perfect Giddimani, brings us his new riddim, the Barriers, via his new label, Giddimani Records and Flow Productions. This track is golden and just like the Arise & Shine (with which it shares quite a few name besides just Perfect's) it features a nice lot of vocalists. Joining Perfect are the likes of Lutan Fyah, Skarra Mucci, Ras Attitude, Fyakin and others. There is some really impressive sounds here and you should definitely check this one out for yourself.

Digital

The Hotta Step Riddim [Chiney K Productions]

And FINALLY (Bredz sent me a list with maybe thirty pictures on it, so we'll probably do a "Check It" later this week) (maybe on all singles) do check out the latest from Chiney K, the brilliant blast from the past, Hotta Step Riddim. This is the splendours of yesteryear turned over the minds of today and appearing on yet another stacked riddim is Sizzla Kalonji alongside Anthony Red Rose, Lutan Fyah (big tune), Luciano with Nitty Kutchie, Jimmy Riley, Lady G, Turbulence (another big tune), Teflon and definitely Esco Levi whose 'Talk Talk' may just be the biggest winner here.

Digital

Go buy some stuff! I'm tired!

What I'm Listening To: June

"Utterance" by Tuff Lion [The Outpost Music Workshop - 2007]

Typically, when I simply have to listen to something from the incomparable Tuff Lion, I'm almost always going to pick up the "Ten Strings" album. That album, called a modern classic on these pages, is fantastic and it is necessary listening. It just is. However, these days, from definitely having the thought to go back (more on that later) I've been dealing with the album which was actually his debut release and, to date, his only vocal album, the overlooked but no less mighty "Utterance" from back in 2007, the year before "Ten Strings" reached and on the Lion's own Outpost Music Workshop imprint. "Utterance" was absolutely delightful modern Roots Reggae music and a powerful display of Tuff Lion's other talents. Of course, if you know his name at all, you probably know him as the wizard that he is on the guitar and as a producer, but as this album so wonderfully demonstrated (as did one of the next pieces that we're going to talk about), Tuff Lion is also someone who quite talented on the mic as well. These days, several songs here have really gotten my attention and probably none of them more so than the bar of gold disguised as a song 'Know The I Self'.

"Are you living positive, affirmative, progressive?

Are you peaceful and humble, not aggressive?

If you say yes well, you doing all the things you should"

Also ranking highly are typical favourites such as 'Stream of Consciousness', 'Rootstafari', 'Be N.A.T.T.Y.' [BOOM!], Balance and others. An excellent album which may've been forgotten just a bit, but for everyone who heard it, a big winner.  

"Talkin Roots" [Mt. Nebo Records - 2003/05]

If you spin forward to the last entry in this post, you'll well notice what it was that brought not only these two albums, but also "Utterance" back on my radars lately and a big thanks goes in that direction for that one and this one as well. The wonderful Bambú Station returned to prominence last year via the MASSIVE "Children Of Exodus" (which should have gotten a "Rewind!" feature at some point), their first album in six years I believe and that took care of one of the most anticipated returns in recent memory. Hopefully, however, they can also return to doing something else which they did quite well - making very, very hard to forget compilations. Their very best, in my opinion, was definitely within the "Talkin Roots" series which, across two installments, really did some major work in its day. Volume 1 would feature the works of very talented vocalists such as Dezarie, Ras Iba, Ankh Watep, Natty Empress, The Star Lion Family and others. Volume 2 took things even higher with the likes of the aforementioned Tuff Lion, Pressure Busspipe ["My powers make di wicked disappear. My powers manifest and Rastaman see it clear"], Army, Danny I, Ras Bumpa and it would even include the MASSIVE 'Never Change My Mind' by a conquering Lady Passion. It probably will NEVER happen again, but it would be news of a huge degree if ever the Station pulled up a third volume of "Talkin Roots" (preferably one featuring a great deal of music from Reemah). 

The Downtown Riddim [Transamazoniennes/Riddim Wise - 2012]

I'd always meant to go back and have a deeper listen to the Downtown Riddim from late last year, courtesy of Transamazoniennes and Riddim Wise (who, I believe, actually built the riddim) and now that I finally have, it was even a little better than I thought as I definitely did have a good feeling about this one. The track itself was just a heavy piece, which was able, however, to generate quite a bit of versatility and melodic appeal. This was particularly true when placed in the hands of Lutan Fyah, Turbulence alongside I Shenko, Dan Fiyah Beats (twice - his second effort, 'Cyaan Hide It', is excellent), Perfect Giddimani, Mikey General, Mikey Dangerous, King Shadrock and others. Definitely go back and check this one out if you missed it. Very good.  

"Stay Focus" by Sizzla Kalonji [VP Records - 2004]

And certainly Sizzla Kalonji releasing a new album ("The Messiah", in stores now) (great backing singing on that album) gives a reason and a opportunity to all to go back and enjoy some of his ridiculously large catalog and that's what I've done with "Stay Focus" from way back in 2004. Why this album exactly? For the most… 'loose' of reasons it jumped back in my mind as it, just like the new album opens with a Psalm ('Psalm 8' in this case). Outside of that, while not remembered as the best album (because it wasn't) this Xterminator produced record was decent. Probably best known as the album carrying the unexpectedly popular 'Stage Show', "Stay Focus" also had decent moments in the form of its just mentioned opener, 'Sound The Trumpet’, 'Volume', the title track and closer 'Jah Will Must Be Done' (which was sublime and is now my clear favourite from this album). I've also taken a greater interest in a tune that I probably haven't heard in a few years, the torching 'Destroy The Wicked'.

"Mi ah bun out dem slavery!

Sizzla Kalonji come ah defend it bravely!

Emperor Selassie I Almighty made wi!

Cool ya now, when babylon dem caan disgrace wi!"

The Songbird Riddim [I Grade Records - 2013]

And finally - I don't know if I've ever told you this so I think that I should - or maybe I'll just be reminding you, but:

"When I hear the songbirds I think of you!"

Boom!