ALBUM DESCRIPTION

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Available on CD only--Not currently available for MP3 download. If you wish to see this album added to our digital download section please e-mail sales@caribbeangospel.com and ask them to please add this album to GospelReggae.com's MP3 download section! Thanks for your support.
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*****Winner of five 2002 Marlin Awards for Outstanding New Artist of the Year (JOY), Outstanding Adapted Recording of the Year (FIRM FOUNDATION), Outstanding Female Contemporary Vocal Performance (JOY), Outstanding Female Reggae Vocal Performance (MAGNIFY HIS NAME), Outstanding Album of the Year (JOY)*****

***ABOUT THE ARTIST***

This is the album that everyone has been waiting for from the original Queen of the dancehall. You were introduced to her gospel reggae music on "Dancehall Baptism Chapter One" with the hit songs "Radio is Playing it" and "Number One." Among all the artists featured on the DB1 compilation, her music received the greatest response--paving her way for her first solo gospel release, "Joy."

In her secular career, Chevelle worked with Jamaica's biggest musical artists, and became the most recognizable female voice in secular dancehall reggae. She was known for her collaborations on such mainstream hits as "Flex" with Mad Cobra and "A-1 Lover" with Spragga Benz, but her most popular duet was with dancehall king Shabba Ranks. This powerful combination constructed "Mr. Loverman," a massive hit that gained worldwide attention. Although she was by far the most sought after female vocalist for duets and background vocals, she rarely earned the credit that she deserved for her significant contributions. In 1996, she recorded her first full-length solo album, "Serious Girl," but the response for this album was less than desirable.

Refusing to be discouraged, Chevelle continued performing on scores of reggae recordings with virtually every artist in the industry. But it was "Dancehall Queen," a unique disco/dance combination with Beanie Man that would put her back on the map. In 1997, this combination soared to musical heights with the smash hit for the Island Pictures film by the same title. The song earned Chevelle a spot in the final scene of the movie, as well as a contract with the Island Jamaica label. In 1998, her soul shaking delivery was rewarded when she was nominated for five Tamika awards, winning "Best Video," "Combination/Duo," and "Cross-Over Record." She had finally gained the appreciation that she deserved and was in the perfect position in the industry.

But this success did not fulfill Chevelle's searching soul. Singing about sex and slackness may have paid the bills, but it also convicted her soul. In 1998 she attended Swallowfield Chapel and heard the gospel of Jesus Christ presented. The message proved to be irresistible and she was drawn to the altar and prayed the sinner's prayer. Since then, her daily walk with the Lord has been a struggle as she found herself forced to choose between industry and ministry. Refusing to leave her music, Chevelle chose to serve Christ within the industry and in 2000 Chevelle began recording new songs for her first gospel album with producer Danny Browne. After over a year of recording, this 100% authentic project is a top notch offering from the Queen of gospel dancehall/reggae.

***SONG BY SONG REVIEW***

The album opens with a BANG, with the hard hitting dancehall anthem "Radio is Playing it." It starts with tight smooth vocals that lead into the full force of the heavy rhythm. This song (initially heard on DB1) is presently exploding on the charts both in Jamaica and around the world, and it is easy to see why. Next is the Latin/dance influenced "Glory Hallelujah," a very upbeat and danceable tune giving thanks and praises to the Lord. This song is obviously the musical follow-up to her massive secular dance hit "Dancehall Queen." The only thing that is missing is the male DJ. Following is "Firm foundation," a solid dancehall beat with "choir-ish" vocals repeated by a gospel style lead, topped off with a little of Chevelle's trademark singjaying.

The title track "Joy" changes the pace combining soft inspiring R&B sounds with slow dancehall beats. Chevelle's vocal styling in this song is similar to the R&B flavor of artists like Whitney Houston. "If you Confess" is a rootsy gospel reggae song with powerful lyrics that outline the whole plan of salvation. This tune is sincere and it is clear through her lyrics that Chevelle is shooting straight from the heart. After one listen you can sense her genuine burden for the lost. Following the same musical format is "Mirror You," another inspiring delivery, about becoming more like Christ.

Chevelle shifts back to the dancehall sound again with "Magnify His Name." This cut has a very catchy hook in the chorus, tight vocals and amazing harmonies reminiscent of Chevelle's past recordings. In the amazing "Nottin' But Love," Chevelle singjays over a hip-hop/dancehall pulse common in modern Jamaican music. The next track is another dancehall slam called "I've Got the Glow." Chevelle's vocals ride the "Praise the Lord" rhythm with tight hits, harmonies and non-stop deejaying all in perfect timing with this dancehall cadence (reminiscent of the popular "Street Sweeper" rhythm). This wicked track (that was also featured on Danny Browne's "Yow" compilation) is one of the best songs on this project.

"Jesus Everytime I Think About You" is a solid gospel reggae delivery with soft soulful vocals. The lyrics clearly reflect Chevelle's sincerity in her faith. Being a hard-core reggae fanatic for years, the words to this tune are a blessing to hear. Chevelle sings "Here Comes the Train" in her usual singjay style which is further emphasized by the brief but effective deejay delivery from The Prodigal Son, a popular newcomer in gospel reggae dancehall. The next track is a dancehall boom-shot typical of past work from producer Danny Browne. I can almost hear Red Rat voicing something over this rhythm. Chevelle rides it nicely with her cut "Another Saturday Night." This song has a very catchy singjay chorus and smooth deejaying in the verses. Niceness a gwaan!

Chevelle slows it down on the next song for a time of reflection and worship. It is an adaptation of the popular praise and worship chorus "Shout to the Lord." As one of my favorite choruses, this song adds a nice element to her debut gospel album, earning Chevelle respect in the fickle Jamaican gospel industry. The album ends with an upbeat hip-hop/R&B/gospel remix of the title track "Joy." The driving drums give the piece that extra energy ending the album on a high-note.

***CONCLUSION***

"Joy" is a great gospel reggae release from Jamaican veteran Chevelle Franklyn. It is nice to hear that Chevelle has not strayed from her authentic dancehall/reggae sound, but has just added some new R&B, hip-hop and gospel elements to some tracks giving the album a good variety. It is clear that God has a plan for Chevelle and her music and she is going to do big things in the gospel dancehall industry. This project is a must have for all gospel reggae/dancehall collectors. It is a serious accomplishment with amazing production. Chevelle Franklyn excels in tight, perfect tempo chats, with "nuff" harmonies and powerful vocal lines. Furthermore, producer Danny Browne continues to excel in the creation of dancehall classics. Overall, "Joy" is an album bound to make waves by an artist that will surely endure. Expect this one to win some awards at 2001 ceremonies!
(Review by Tim "Jah Pickney" Linnard)