ALBUM DESCRIPTION

***LABEL HISTORY***

It’s no secret that the UK has given the world some of the most talented and innovative artists to date. In fact the UK has set the standard in genres such as Punk and Jungle. Surprisingly enough, the UK is bringing forth some of the hottest sounds in Gospel Reggae. Bringing their addition to the growing UK based Gospel Reggae scene is Righteous Corner Productions, with their compilation entitled “I’m Free.”

Currently Righteous Corner is comprised of three talented producers: Howard Buckley, Ron Rodney and Tony Thompson. A gospel music recording label created in 1999, Righteous Corner specializes in reggae music; it’s no small wonder since both Tony and Howard were previously part of two distinct Sound Systems before dedicating their lives to Christ. The three men display their love for the genre in this 14-track offering a blend of ragga, roots, rub-a-dub and hardcore reggae.

***ALBUM REVIEW***

A steady line-up of veteran artists such as Judy Mowatt, Prodigal Son, Osmond Collins and Chevelle Franklyn is joined by a slew of up-and-comers such as Righteous Raema and Theresa Morton.

The project opens with the legendary vocals of Judy Mowatt on “My LORD and Saviour.” A swaying laid-back riddim with a bubbling organ and cooled with a smothered brass breeze. Judy sings her praises and dedictes to walking with her Lord.

The dancehall queen herself makes an entrance with the title track “I'm Free.” Combining elements of soulful singing and precise chatting Chevelle Franklyn compliments the bobbing Young Solomon Riddim.

The Clap Hands Riddim makes its first appearance on this compilation underneath the infamous Prodigal Son. “Result of I Wish” is his follow-up track to his hit “I Wish.” Chevelle offers some backing vocals to juxtapose Prodigal's deep chatting. The riddim is a simple forumla relying on casiophonic claps and synth highlights. The melody is upbeat and the vibe is infectious.

Those who have been craving to hear another release from Moses can turn to track 7 and smile as he re-emerges to the forefront of dancehall with “Bind Dem” atop the same Clap Hands Riddim. Although the beginning vocals may take you aback by its sharpness in contrast to the riddim, Moses smooths it out by the first verse. Moses delivery on this track is so smooth he effortlessly hops over each beat, showing off his ability to spit fire without getting tongue-tied.

What compilation would be complete without the crisp sounds of Osmond Collins? “Trust the Lord” eases off the percussion and lets the brass and piano instrumentals drive the melody of the track. Osmond's velvety voice coats each note of the tracks giving it a warm inviting vibe.

Righteous Raema brings dancehall to another level with his animated chatting (with th liveliness of artists such as Goofy and Red Rat) on a smoldering standard dancehall riddim injected with enough electronic sound bites to please any early-90s Dancehall fan. He challenges listeners to not delay any longer in making the decision to change their lives.

Theresa Morton slows things down on the Revelation Five Riddim, a ricketing delayed beat with obvious influences from funk and soul. “Lo My Jesus Comes” is a sultry expression of anticipation for the arrival of Christ.

***Conclusion***

This compilation is a true compilation in the sense that no track eminates the same vibe. A spectrum of upbeat Dancehall to swaying Rocksteady this compilation is a collection of gems with the attentive polishing of UK production.

Righteous Corner marks their territory in the Reggae Market with the I'm Free Compilation. Fans can also dig up their first project with Kimberly Washington entitled “Wondeful Peace.” This compilation is truly a wonderful piece and deserves the interest of any and all reggae aficionados.

Reviewed By: Lourdes Capulong