ALBUM DESCRIPTION

Added December 7th, 2004

----------------------------
ABOUT THE ARTIST
----------------------------

Mr. Goddy Goddy was born Howard Reynolds on November 15, 1970 in Kingston Jamaica where he grew up in the Marverly and Orange Grove communities in Kingston. He attended church on Sundays at a local church as this was custom of his family.

At age 14, while attending Papine Secondary School, Howard started his secular music career as "Snake Man", he recording at age 15 titled "Old People" for the famed recording duo Sly & Robbie.

In 1993, he signed with the Black Scorpio Label where he recorded his first major single 'Mr. Dynamite'.

In 1997, Howard was enjoying success as a secular DJ but eventually grew uncomfortable with the Dancehall environment and especially with the lewd lyrics that he often chanted. One night while watching a religious program on television, a great conviction came over him and he found himself asking God for forgiveness on his knees. He made the decision to give up his secular DJ career and started attending a local church and studying the Word of God.

On April 1999 he fully surrendered all to Jesus at the altar of Cavalier New Testament Church and was subsequently water baptized.

In November 2000, Mr. Goddy Goddy, released his debut album 'Goddy Goddy', which has been well received. In 2001, Mr. Goddy Goddy was the recipient of the XNEWS "Best Gospel Artiste for 2000" award.

Mr. Goddy Goddy has had the pleasure of sharing the stage with the likes of Papa San, Stitchie, Ziggy Soul, Carlene Davis, Chevelle Franklyn, and The Righteous Riders.

In 2004, Mr. Goddy Goddy's launched his sophomore album entitled "Warfare" that he hopes will be very instrumental in winning many souls for Christ.

----------------------------
REVIEW
----------------------------

Although the roots of Reggae are planted in Jamaica, its branches have spread internationally, bearing fruit globally �����¯�����¿����1â��2 bringing forth artists from all corners of the earth. Sherwin brought his signature soulful vocals from Trinidad, Monty brought a delectable array of Roots and Dancehall riddims from Bermuda and Christafari showed that the US has something to say when it comes to Reggae.

With all the influences and flavors brought forth from international artists, there is still something to be said about the crisp and authentic sound of Jamaican releases.

Minister Goddy Goddy (aka Mr. Goddy Goddy) returns with his sophomore release "Warfare," bringing Jamaica back into the musical arena.

This 48 minute project opens with an aural dramatization of the spiritual warfare that each Christian faces. The title track, shows that this "ministering soldier" has been in training since his 2001 debut release. A much more agile and animated Goddy Goddy flawlessly spits line after line, calling all Christians to arm themselves with spiritual devotion and not to fear anything they face. Joined by Likkle G, this duet borrows from the Ghostbuster's theme song boldly proclaiming "I ain't afraid of no ghost!"

Capturing the same energy Goddy Goddy puts into his live shows, "Sure" featuring the talented Prodigy, displays the duo atop a cadence-driven military-based riddim. This cut tackles the issues of temptation and doubt which every Christian must face if they are to step out of lukewarm attitudes and really walk out their faith.

The Dancehall Queen herself, Chevelle Franklin, joins her former label-mate on "Sinless." Her soprano vocals add smooth texture to the track bringing in a harmonious vibe alongside the Minister's back-throat vocal style. A great encouraging track, for those struggling to shake loose the shackles of worldly temptations.

Another heavy hitting percussive track "Spiritually" finds the legendary Lady Junie providing some great adages. This adequately layered track brings the right amount of sound effects and samples, to keep you guessing about what is to come next. The production is indicative of the style we come to expect from Jamaican releases.

Goddy Goddy slows things down with the swaying "Give Thanks Fi Mama," a dedication to women, reminding them of the life within their wombs. The synthesizer accompaniment coupled with the sweet guitar licks brings a robust and full flavor to the cut. Reggae has always been conscious of social issues, and this is a great reminder of the ability of an artist to use their music as a platform to speak on various topics bringing relevant issues to light. It's refreshing to hear a song about women that contains substance instead of the typical "slackness" tunes that have become prevalent on airwaves. Goddy Goddy reminds his women listeners that they are appreciated and the importance of the role they play in GOD's plan for creation. Bless up Goddy Goddy for this one!

What Jamaican release would be complete without a bubbling organ and plucking bass chords? "Oh Jah Jah" brings a heartfelt prayer from Minister Goddy Goddy to GOD asking for strength. Goddy Goddy's new delivery style strikes just the right balance between gruff and soothing.

Overall this album brings spirituality face to face with relevant issues Christians encounter. It neither hides the fact that temptation is a reality nor does it leave listeners in despair without hope for finding strength in Jesus Christ. Minister Goddy Goddy has also grown as an artist and this is definitely noticeable with his ability to capture the energy from his lives shows and translate that into a recorded and well-polished project. Pick this one up today, and keep the remote handy �����¯�����¿����1â��2 there will be a few tracks you will want to repeat.


Review by: Mia Kulpah