ALBUM DESCRIPTION

**British National Gospel Award Winner**
**Channel 5 Alpha Zone Award for the Most Radical Ministry**
**Oasis Award Winner for Best Reggae / Ragga Artiste 2002. **

From the section of South London known as Brixton comes David Williams (aka Watchman) with his second outing entitled "Tongues Of Fire." A play on words for sure, the title is a reflection of both the vocal prowess of Watchman and also the Spirit-filled streetwise ministry of which this album is a part. After releasing "Contemporary Christian" (Flintwood Records, 1998) in conjunction with digital reggae pioneers Mafia & Fluxy, we are treated here to an exceptional sophomore release every bit as good. This time around we find Watchman working with the excellent Tony Rich of Jet Star Gospel Times on an album which encompasses hardcore ragga, hip-hop and roots reggae riddims all providing ample and effective support. Transparent in interviews, Watchman shows why he is so effective at connecting with Greater London youth in churches and detention centers alike. "Tongues Of Fire" continues in that spirit of keeping it real as he reaches out, not only to the youth, but all who will listen.

The thumping ragga track "Check Yourself" finds Watchman speaking out about older men who prey on young girls, warning them of the destructive ramifications. Instantly catchy, the song is sure to please fans of dancehall and hip-hop alike, but its greatest strength may be in the provocative message.

"Do You Believe" is a slower-tempo dancehall track with a definite urban feel that challenges Christian believers and those who only profess to be. In his unique singjay style, Watchman delivers the chorus "Do you believe the bible is infallible/Actual, factual and reliable/Than why proceed as though it's hypothetical?/No need to answer the question rhetorical." A great track!

Watchman features a few special guests including dancehall reggae legend Frankie Paul on the retro roots influenced track "Streetality." Replete with dubwize effects and excellent flute accompaniment, the song is an awesome combination tune which serves as a rallying cry for all of God's children to come together, to flee from sin and carry forth the work of sharing the gospel of Christ to those who are lost. Yet another standout track is the smoothly alternating singing chorus and chanting verse track "Frienemy." Borrowing liberally from the Smokey Robinson classic "Being With You", Watchman encourages new Christians who find their friends criticizing their decision to follow Christ and change their lifestyle. On "My Type", Watchman teams with Tony Clark and Tony Rich as he effectively uses a well-known roots riddim to sing of the challenges facing a Christian man seeking a mate. Combining humor with sensibility, "My Type" tackles a topic often unaddressed by Christian artists. One thing you'll realize after listening to "Tongues Of Fire" is that Watchman is not afraid of speaking on controversial or even sensitive topics, but always does so with a balance of humbleness and boldness.

"It Was Me" features reggae gospel deejay Gamma along with Tony Rich as the same riddim employed by Shaggy on his risque--"It Wasn't Me", only this time to talk of being responsible in spiritual warfare. In actuality, this riddim contains a heavily borrowed riff from classic funk/Latin/soul/rock group WAR's tune "Smile Happy." I know this only because I spent a good deal of time in the mid 90's listening to some of their albums. "It Wasn't Me" is another radio-friendly tune that should garner airplay on both secular reggae and pop music formats.

Featuring rapper G.I.F.T.E.D., "Bring Up A Child" is a charged up roots track which admonishes parents to follow the biblical teaching of training up a child in the way he should, that when he is older he will not depart from it. With yet another effective combo track, Watchman shows he has a knack for collaborations. A perfect blend of rap and reggae, this song brings to light a subject of crucial importance today in an age of increasing child rebellion and parental abuse. It is clear as Watchman and G.I.F.T.E.D. deftly trade verses that they fully believe that the Lord has provided in His word all of the answers we need to better raise our children and equip them for the tasks ahead.

"The Only Way" is yet another very nice track which finds Watchman chatting on the verses and giving way to tight group harmonies on the chorus. In an age when the "all roads lead to one" theory is as popular as ever, we are reminded that Jesus Christ alone is the answer and the way, truth and life. Almost a sure shot, you'll find yourself singing along with this one.

"Final Call" is an excellent closing track as Watchman glides across an intense dancehall track as he warns Christians who are cold and lukewarm to stoke the coals of their faith as Christ speaks of in the book of Revelation. With a nimble chatting style, Watchman calls Christians to abstain from hypocrisy and sinfulness and instead to immerse themselves in the Lord.

"Tongues Of Fire" is a must-buy album for lovers of dancehall reggae and is a highly effective tool for reaching those who are outside of Christ. From an artistic level as well as a spiritual one, Watchman has delivered a serious gem here.

Review by Mike Roots