Modern Roots

Barbadian singer David Kirton and producer Mikey Bennett make reggae accessible to every musical taste with this viable set recorded at two Jamaican studios. The style is busy but smooth, melodic, and warm as the tropical island that sprung this talented singer/writer. Up-tempo jams that make you gyrate are as compelling as the touching love songs that make the heart cry. Kirton uses his voice like an instrument, and his relaxed expressive tenor is addicting. The first two tracks, a sweet up-tempo number and a floater, dresses you for two essential pieces of social commentary: the hard hitting "Ride on Natty" and "To Know Jah," with its classic ska cadence. He touches all with "Woman So Special," an affectionate love song that'll bounce into your heart and stay forever, like good songs do. Sure bets include "Stepping Stone," the sensual "Slow Down," the jazzy "No Time," and "Homesick for Paradise," where he longs for them island breezes. The excellent musicians and backing vocals are outstanding throughout. You'll let this mellow disc repeat over and over without tiring of the buttery creations or getting any complaints from the peanut gallery.