Tell It from the Heart

Luciano has become a big enough name by this point, that when it's time for him to record a new album, he has little trouble attracting A-list guests and studio musicians. In this case, these include the legendary drummer Sly Dunbar, the equally respected saxophonist Dean Fraser, and guest vocalists Turbulence, Luton Fyah, Brian & Tony Gold, and others. And as usual, Luciano's songs are heartfelt and tuneful, and his delivery is the same. The inevitable intro track (can nothing be done to stop this practice?) is a waste of time, of course, but everything else ranges from good to excellent. "Ends of Never" is a charming, devotional Jah anthem; "Babylon Go Down" offers not only a stirring message of warning, but also what is probably the first-ever use of the word "plutocrat" in a reggae song; "Freedom Train" is built on a tastefully subdued dancehall beat, and features a fine cameo appearance by the young Bobo Dread singer Turbulence. The by-the-numbers rock beat on "Another Moses" isn't especially interesting, and a couple of tracks wander away from reggae into the wilderness of soul and gospel. But those are enjoyable as well, in their own way. Nice stuff overall.