Veteran artist Horace Martin returns with a new album called Sound Clash. The producer is also a veteran in the person of Trevor Elliott, on whose Musical Ambassador label this project is released. Musical Ambassador is known for releasing seminal material by Edi Fitzroy and the late Johnny Ringo among others during the first half of the 80’s. In fact, this album is largely built around classic riddims primarily played by Roots Radics from Fitzroy’s epic “Check For You Once” album. Some of the riddims are laced with overdubs and fresh horn arrangements to add some contemporary flavor. Additionally, this project is in the classic showcase format where each vocal cut is followed by its dub counterpart.
The album gets going with “So Called Pastors” over the “Work On Mr. Farmer Man” riddim originally graced by Fitzroy. This tune hits home with a very strong, though controversial message about “pastors” who “use Jesus’ name to pave their way to riches and fame.” The next track titled “Pretty So” celebrates female beauty and utilizes the classic Fitzroy/Radics riddim “Dreadlocks Party” to great effect and has been receiving a steady dose of airplay.
Martin expresses in no uncertain terms that “Me No Bad Boy,” which utilizes Musical Ambassador’s cut of the M16/Secretly riddim. The title track features a spruced up “Check For You Once” riddim which sounds fresh because the touch up given to the classic riddim track gives it a contemporary sound. Sound tunes are very much alive in the 21st century and this is a good one. The next track is also a classic “Sound Boy” tune as the title implies over a cut of the Wicked Can’t Run Away/Youthman riddim. Sound Clash Showcase closes out with “Girlfriend” featuring Lama on a modern version of the “Queen Of The Minstrel” riddim.
This is classic reggae with a contemporary sound and is well worth a listen. Sound Clash Showcase is now available on all major online stores via mp3 download, CD, or vinyl. This album demonstrates that everything old is new again. Classic Roots Radics riddims are brought back to life, vinyl record sales are on the rise, and the long lost showcase format is revived. Sure sign that reggae music on a whole is returning to its roots which is a great thing.
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