ALBUM DESCRIPTION
Riddim (or "rhythm") projects continue to be very popular in the reggae community, especially in dancehall, where various artists each take their shot at riding the same version. Compilations like "The Servant's Quarters Riddim Sessions" are often beneficial for both the radio deejay (for mixing) and the listener alike as the format allows the sonic current to keep flowing as one vocalist after another comes in to deliver their message and musical vibes. The trick in pulling this off is to have a solid riddim and a good variety of fresh voices and songs to form a cohesive collection of individual expressions.
With a number of roots-oriented projects being released over the past few years, the dancehall is no longer the only forum where the riddim experience is finding appeal. No stranger to such works, Jah Servant was the riddim creator, primary musician (everything except the horns) and producer of the enjoyable yet highly underrated "Unity Riddim Sessions Vol. 1" (Star Recordings, 2004). In addition to that project, over the past couple of years this Canadian-born rootsman has collaborated with and produced for such artists as Owen Uriah, Audrey Gordon, Mike Roots, Sherwin Gardner, Mention, Jah Pickney, Drae, Mission Epistle and others in addition to releasing two fine instrumental/dub recordings of his own.
But let's get back to the feature of this review. "The Servant's Quarters- Riddim Sessions" ("SQRS") is an energetic project that features two new riddims; "Nah Bow Down" and "Critical Condition". With only two artists (Sherwin Gardner and DJ Evangelist) from "URS Vol. 1" making an appearance here, "SQRS" is truly a new thing with several established and new voices in reggae music. As you may have guessed by their titles, the two riddims featured here are quite intense and therefore lend themselves to some urgent themes and serious vibes. From a purely musical standpoint, "SQRS" is an impressive work with superb playing and excellent production.
With "Nah Bow Down" we're treated to Drae's devotional pledge to never bow down to earthly riches, idols or ways of mankind. Featuring a brilliant, heartical voice, the singer prayerfully makes known it's only "the Lord, God, my Savior" who he'll follow. I was eagerly waiting to hear Drae's next recording after the release of the excellent single "Live It Right" (also done with Jah Servant), and it was well worth the wait. It's a startlingly bold statement coupled with a crucial one-drop riddim that starts things off on the right foot.
Next up is a singer/deejay by the name of Radical Child who employs a grittier style to present a mellow yet passionate prayer. Continuing in the same direction as the previous tune, "Hear My Cry" is melodic plea and declaration unto the Lord Jesus. Calling on the only One who can save his soul, Radical Child prays for protection and power to make it through a wicked world. With very nice female backing vocals, "Hear My Cry" presents a sweet blend of contrasts.
With "Johnny Too Bad" (no, not The Slickers classic of the same name) artist Mention brings to the table a conscious observation of ghetto reality. Peppered with Jah Servant's searing guitar work, this is a top tune which combines great hooks, more superb backing vocals from the ladies and Mention's unique "sing-jay" style. With a message of warning to the youth who would choose the gun instead of the righteous path, "Johnny Too Bad" is a sad tale which needs to be told and heard.
The solo female featured artist on "SQRS", Anointed Duchess shines by displaying a style seemingly influenced by Chevelle Franklyn yet balanced with originality. "I Know" is a powerful affirmation to stand strong and keep focused on JAH. Flowing from singing to deejaying and back again with apparent ease, Anointed Duchess is one to look out for.
Sherwin Gardner gives another strong performance with a message of worship and his patented layered backing vocals on "Holy Worthy".
When I saw Gitta Dan's name among the listing of artists on this project I was looking forward to hearing his contribution. Chanting against Babylon system and declaring JAH as his firm foundation, the track "Can't Hold Me Down" is a standout "SQRS".
Another new artist, Mr. Danny, is also no disappointment. If you combined Junior Reid with fellow "SQRS" artist Drae you would have a good idea of what this exciting new voice sounds like. Mr. Danny does his own backing vocals on "I've Been Blessed" though I mistakenly thought it was Sherwin Gardner because the similar sound and arrangement. On this mellow roots tune, he sings of using his talent for blessing and goodness rather than cursing and badness. I sure hope many youth hear this tune and get the message!
Bro J's robust delivery and encouraging message keep the roots train barreling along with "Keep On". Let's hope we hear more from this distinct talent who knows how to compose original lyrics and voice them in a distinctive style.
DJ Evangelist's "Wha Dis Fada" doesn't detract from the whole of "SQRS" but comes off rather raw and is noticeably shorter than the rest. Still, it's an effective addition to the objective of this project with a similarly urgent prayer-message that reflects the artist's end times observations and desire for the youth to rise above.
The group Mission Epistle kicks off the second half of the project with "Critical Condition" on the riddim of the same name. Another impeccable musical work, this time Jah Servant smoothes things out with some nice synth flourishes and punctuates with a bit of guitar crunch. ME's tune is another good effort as they sound the watchman's warning.
Anointed Duchess comes again, this time with a track titled "Turn Around". Though displaying strong and versatile vocal technique, she ends up getting a bit wordy and rushed here, trying to squeeze in a little too much. Clearly, "I Know" (her interpretation on the "Nah Bow Down" riddim) is the better song on this project.
Sherwin Gardner steps up with another exhorting message combined with a hook-filled chorus and inspired lyrics on "Give It To Me". In a silky way, Gardner sermonizes us to give our hearts, minds, souls and praise to Almighty GOD who gives us everything. Calling us to a life of worship, as "Jesus' desire", the listener is challenged to surrender all.
On "High", Anointed Ones provide another hybrid of singing and deejaying to good effect with meditations on JAH word, Jesus love and the destination of Zion. I'm not sure if I hear two or more voices here, but they blend together well.
Koen Duncan (formerly of the now defunct Broadway Boyz International) injects his passionate vocals into the mix with "Rush And Crush"- an uplifting message on how amidst temptation and even lost spiritual battles, we have strength and victory in Christ. I love the line "I know temptation's strong/Know your GOD is stronger/Call Him when it comes/He will be your Redeemer". Words from the heart and simply a strong tune all around.
With "Reality", James Saunders and Kirth Regis bring a probing, pleading message to one who has turned away from the Lord and back to the ways of the world. "Reality" is a perfect title to this song as this duo tells it like it is with a pleasing combination of vocal styles.
Yet another new artist, Antus, presents "The Word" as the source of truth and for answers to the questions of life. Though not the catchiest of tunes, it's still competently done and adds further reinforcement to the project with a focus on yet another crucial element to one's spiritual wellbeing.
Elisha's deejaying on his "Look To The Hills" is the means by which he dispenses some good advice to look to the Almighty One in times of distress. This youth has an interesting vocal style and tone as he flows smoothly from guttural exhortation to soaring praise.
"Trust In Jah" is Gitta Dan's take on the "Critical Condition" riddim. Perhaps slightly less strong than "Can't Hold Me Down", the tune is still well worth the listen and deserves attention. "Trust In Jah" is Dan's pledge to remain committed to the Most High no matter how rough life gets. Further, he testifies of His goodness and sings of his passion to let others know of Him.
"SQRS" includes the two riddims by themselves as instrumentals to great effect as they serve to add emphasis and meditative vibes to the project.
"The Servant's Quarter's- Riddim Sessions" is an excellent compilation overall which showcases numerous vocal talents and presents to the conscious reggae listener a collection of fresh tunes, top-notch modern roots vibes and impeccable production.
Review by Mike Roots
