Published June 2000

REVIEWED BY
LYNDEN VASSELL

HORACE ANDY
Living In The Flood (Melankolic/Virgin Records Ltd.)

After decades of being in the business, Horace Andy illustrates that he has not lost the touch. With his unmistakable uniquely soulful singing style and conscious vibes, it is easy to see why this musician has stood the test of time. The varied reggae grooves range from mellow, rootsy tracks to a more soulful R&B type of sound. Overall, this CD provides a smooth ride with an infectious character, which seems better each time played. With the solid backing of talented musicians and tight sound on this album, devoted fans of Horace Andy will not be disappointed.


VARIOUS
The Kings & Queens of Rocksteady (Music Collection International Ltd.)

To really appreciate where reggae music is at and the roads it has traveled, it is necessary to revisit its beginnings. Some might classify this segment as the "golden age" which bridged the gap between ska and the genres within the reggae music we hear today. This segment, known as the rocksteady era, filled with romantic ballads and rich soulful voices, became a trademark of the Treasure Isle label. This 15-track compilation is definitely a collector's dream, synonymous with striking gold. These classic tracks like "Girl I've Got A Date," "Moonlight Lover," "On The Beach," "Queen Majesty," and "Boom Shaka Laka," are bound to delight. Well recommended.


VARIOUS
Dancehall Vibes (Jamdown Records)

Jamdown records seems to have the "Midas Touch" when it comes to the dancehall mixes. This, another one in the series of "bashment" juggling tunes, is no different. This compilation, which includes hip-hop and dancehall mixes, rhythmically covers a lot of ground. The lively revamped rhythm of Gloria Estevan's "Rhythm Of The Night" is a refreshing dancehall vibe which features Cobra, Powerman, and Delly Ranks. Other standouts include Buccaneer, Professor Nuts and Lady Saw. Devonte & Mack Turner wraps up this dancehall collection with a "wicked" track called "Buck A Gal."


SEKOU SUNDIATA
Longstoryshort (Righteous Babe Records Inc.)

Whether adding fuel to a rhythm which seems like the backdrop for the theme from "Shaft" by Isaac Hayes; musically painting the "bluesy" picture of a John Coltrane session; or rejoicing to celebratory freedom of Nelson Mandela presented in a township jive format, Sundiata's voice, depth, and presentation, beckons to be heard. This poet will leave you in awe. "Reparations," in its jazzy format, is a terse thought-provoking social commentary on America that is likely to leave you, like a pinball machine, on TILT. The title track is astounding both musically and poetically. While it is easy to be seduced by the rhythmic qualities of the tracks, the double edged poems laid down on this CD, packs heavyweight punches that will leave you in a state of vertigo.&nbspYou'll be wanting more, while at the same time wanting it to stop. Too much, too deep to be devoured in one sitting.