ALBUM DESCRIPTION

Out of the Lion of Judah Sounds (LOJ) camp comes an all-star line up of Dancehall artists on The Lion's Pride P.R.I.D.E. Monty G returns alongside Rueben, Mighty 1, Poppa Willy, and Ronnie Cash (aka DJ Frost) who provide a delectable selection of pulsating Dancehall riddims for each artist to skillfully ride. Frost arranges a wide array of upbeat Dancehall beats drawing on Hip Hop, R&B, Soca and even some Rock influences. With this release from LOJ, these four Ragga-mites prove that some of the most innovative and fresh Dancehall will be coming out of the Bahamas.

On 'Who R U Livin 4', Rueben's crystal voice is chased by a deep kicking rhythm driven by a bottomless base line, as he challenges the listener to consider the purpose of their existence. He breaks away momentarily from his signature pristine vocals to show that he can chat with the best of them. Rock fans can smile with the inclusion of 'Y2K Army (Rock Mix)' on this compilation. The track offers a live concert feel complete with wild audience cheers in the introduction. The electric guitar licks take the foreground as this Caribbean-seasoned rock track relies on rougher vocal styling. The Lion's Pride turn up the energy on the infamous Soca inspired 'Shield & Banna' (showcased on Lion of Zion's Soca Baptism). Highlighted by horn arrangements scattered throughout, the track explodes with upbeat high tempo drum kicks and baseline grooves. The Pride teams up with L.B.C. on the Hip Hop driven 'Dance Like David.' Moving away from chatting, this track fuses elements of Hip Hop and R&B with enough precision to create a radio-friendly track. Poppa Willy slows things down on 'Sweet Words.' Singjaying his way through a swaying roots influenced beat, Poppa Willy wails a heartfelt dedication and desire for a God given Proverbs 31 woman.

This album secures Lion of Judah's place as one of the driving forces in the Gospel Reggae Market. Offering another well produced and crafted project, LOJ Sounds is sure to present a few gems that will attract any listener on Lion's Pride P.R.I.D.E. All in all, it is a solid compilation with a wide array of influences and enough bass to keep any audiophile happy.

Review by: LOURDES CAPULONG