ALBUM DESCRIPTION

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ARTIST BIO:

It has been over three years since we have heard anything new from this former secular singing sensation. His first gospel reggae release aptly titled "Brand New," left us singing along and crying out for more.

With this sophomore effort, we enter the next chapter in Junior's life. Although some portions of this writing may sound strikingly similar to his prior achievements, there are also significant differences. The most profound change is the strong praise and worship tilt. While the title "Ready for the Rapture," may sound like the album is a study of the Revelation of John, it is more of an encouragement and offering of praise and Worship for the church than an Eschatological warning to unbelievers.

But this title is very significant in this apocalyptic age. God's Word is clear that the end is near and Christ will come like a thief in the night. As the September 11th, 2001 tragedy taught us how abbreviated one's life can be, Jr. gently reminds us that we need to be prepared for the end.

Now as a minister, and knowledgeable student of the Bible, Junior has set out to disseminate God's Word and give an offering of hope to this generation through the sacrifice of praise.

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SONG BY SONG REVIEW:

Ready or not, Junior Tucker kicks open the beginning of this great album with his patent phrase; "OKAY!!!" Over an old school dancehall bangarang beat, Tucker calls out to all soldiers in God's Army; "Get Ready for the Rapture." But this is more of an interdenominational celebration than a pre-apocalyptic warning.

In the "Bonafide Christian Medley," Junior bawls out "Show mi unno hands, all original bonafide Christains!" After listening to this tune you may feel the sudden urge to pass the duche (cookie) on the left hand side, but that is just because you recognize the standard Jamaican rhythm. But this is not Musical Youth, and as you listen to the lyrics you may find yourself singing along to choruses like; "Soon and Very Soon," "Rock My Soul in the Bosom of Abraham," and "Real, Real, Real." I am sure that Junior lights up every Jamaican church when he performs this one.

Now that we are all in a praising mood, Tucker busts out an extremely contemporary version of Integrity's "Ancient of Days." With a hardcore dancehall backbone, this song has received a well deserved facelift from its original sluggish tempo.

The pace slows down significantly with the one drop rhythm of "There is a God." This original reggae-lite track is packed full of sunshine. In his typical girlish tones, Junior asks some tough questions and tells us that there is evidence of our Creator in His Creation.

The mood continues to mellow with a saccharine-sweet reggae interpretation of Maranatha's "As The Deer." On this song Chevelle Franklyn and Mr. JT bless us with a touching duet. Man, I wish that they sang it this way at my church!

The next track takes us to the most intimate part of the album. Starting off with just vocals and a piano, "What Kind of Love is This?/Right by your Side" (inspired by Isaiah 53 and Psalm 18:2-4) is a heartfelt cry reminiscent of the late Keith Green. The song then builds up into a full band, backed by a choir. After about five minutes, you realize that this track is just beginning. It is evident that this is not a song, but an eleven minute medley with various movements. The best venue for a song like this would be a typical black gospel church. I only wish that they had recorded this one live instead of in the studio.

Get ready to dance like David danced with the "Spirit of the Lord/Glory to Glory" medley. Though this song may start off at a snail's pace, within the first minute the infectious reggae groove kicked in and it is evident that the album is on an upswing. The richness and range in Junior's voice reaches the highest of hills. I sure hope that churches start patterning their praise and worship after songs like this.

By the time that "God is for Me" drops it is apparent that the better songs on this album are in the second half. Junior takes no prisoners and the infectious groove will keep ya movin'. But wait, there's more... Introducing the radical Prodigal Son boasting that he is "ready for the battle and not afraid of Satan's tackle 'cause, Satan lose."

By now it is clear that this famed alto is a hit-making machine. As we dive into the contagious "Heaven is all I see," we see more mad potential from this singing canary. A tight dub-styled steppers track-dis ah de Lick!

Ah What? "Who's That?" Junior Tucker mashes up the dancehall with another massive boomshot inspired by Revelation 3:20. Why wasn't this one at the beginning of the album? Man, this lp keeps getting better and better! The melody, harmony and hardcore reggae vibe on this cut is where Junior should reside if he aims to achieve the reggae greatness that is within his grasp. He is truly in his natural habitat on this track.

Over the smooth flowing Hosanna Music tune, "Lord I Thirst for You," Junior once again successfully melds what was traditionally stale praise and worship with fresh contemporary roots reggae.

Though it may not fit in the reggae genre, the smooth flowing "See You in Heaven" is an intimate song dedicated to his parents on which he states his strong desire to see them in heaven.

This album concludes with another modern reggae take on the legendary Rich Mullens' "Awesome God." But this one is like no other version previously recorded. Junior's vocals sail across the chorus, swooping over foundational hip hop beats while Mr. Goddy Goddy chomps at the mic. with ferocious DeeJaying skills.

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CONCLUSION:

The title does not truly define the project's theme. This release is a modern reggae praise and worship recording that every worship leader should own. Although it does not sound like your typical praise and worship CD. With seven serious reggae tracks, three dancehall cuts and three traditional praise and worship tunes, there is a little something for everyone.

One thing that I love about this album are the Biblical references listed on many of the songs. There is also one track dedicated entirely to the reading of the Scripture (#13). There is significant power in this Christ-centered album. For God's Word is living and active, and will never return void.

I am enraptured by "Ready for the Rapture." It is by far Junior Tucker's greatest effort to date. Order a copy today.