CD Review: NiyoRah, Feel Your Presence

NiyoRah: Feel Your Presence
Denkenesh Records, 2010
www.niyorah.com

NiyoRah operates just this side of an insufferable self-righteousness, but don’t let that put you off. The stance seems to be an occupational hazard for contemporary reggae singer-songwriters (which is why it’s so refreshing to return regularly to Toots and Desmond and Alton and Bob), but with so much good listening to be had from the young crew, we can’t ignore them. Especially when they’re as talented as NiyoRah.  Read more... (308 words + 1 image)

CD Review: Odel, Redemption

Odel: Redemption (OHM CD 009)
OHM Grown Records, 2010
www.odeljohnson.com

This is one powerful reggae album. Not only does Odel have a big voice that he has no hesitation in using at full capacity, but the production (Odel is listed as producer too) is a perfect match for it. Together, that means it’s impossible to ignore this music -  not that you would want to, but if you happen to like your reggae as background for reading or studying as well as for dancing and listening, well, you’ll have to stick with the skanking and grooving this time around.  Read more... (323 words + 1 image)