“In The Mood”, a six-song EP by Hopeton Lindo and Fiona, was released on 16th July distributed by Zojak Worldwide. It contains “Guilty” and “In Your Eyes”, which were number one songs for the duo in New York and South Florida.
Lindo produced four of the tracks for his Irie Pen Records.
“In Your Eyes” and “In The Mood” both of which he wrote lyrics are produced by Sly & Robbie and Rorey Baker of Taxi/One Pop Records. The Ep was mixed at both One Pop studio and Heavybeat studio and mastered at Heavybeat Studio.
Given their success of the past two years, it seemed natural for Lindo and Fiona to collaborate on a wider project.
“In The Mood” also has covers of the Billy Davis/Marilyn McCoo hit, “You Don’t Have To Be A Star”, and a smooth lovers rock take on “Yes I’m Ready”, originally done by Barbara Mason.
According to Lindo, he and Fiona share common ground musically. That bond extended to the musicians on the project including the legendary drum-and-bass team of Sly and Robbie, as well as guitarists extraordinaire Willie Lindo and Paul Gauntlett.
“The chemistry between Fiona and I comes naturally. The vibes between musicians and producers on this project is great as we’re all professionals and good friends who respect each other,” he said.
That chemistry flows on the opening song, “You Don’t Have To Be A Star”. Veteran sound system selector Andre “Waggy Tee” Chue Sang, suggested Lindo and Fiona add a Jamaican flavor to a classic that won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 1977 and their rendition is amazing.
Fiona endorsed his statement that their shared approach to music, paid dividends. “Love Don’t Fail Me” an amazing Duet Remix, written by Fiona is another smashing track on the project.
“The chemistry is automatic because, our love for music in itself is what leads us when we’re thinking of lyrics, and content. Especially when it comes to our fans and what they want,” said Fiona.
Lindo, author and co-author of classic reggae/dancehall jams like “Red Rose for Gregory”, “Champion Lover”, “Wanna Be Loved” and “Telephone Love”, insists any music project he is part of has a main ingredient.
“Good melodies are very important as that’s what catches the ear of listeners first and makes them sing along,” he said.
—Written By Howard Campbell
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