What
makes this album unique is that it
achieves success in presenting quality
arrangements in several musical
styles, while blending them together
to form a cohesive body.
The album contains a variety of
styles, running the gamut from rootsy
gospel reggae and ska, to calypso and
contemporary gospel arrangements.
There is an interesting sequence of
songs on "Armageddon", in
that the album starts of with what
could be used as an altar song. The
touching ballad, "Jesus Christ
Superstar", shares only the title
with the 70's musical of the same
name. Featuring deeply comforting
lyrics and soothing, yet creative
backing vocals from the Jewels, this
is a song that can help bring
Christians back into closer communion
with the Lord and while inviting
seekers to let Jesus "meet you
where you are". The song is
soothing and inviting- actually not a
bad way to start off.
Other highlights include the ska tune,
"He's Coming Again", which
serves to prepare all for the return
of Jesus Christ the Messiah.
Musically, the intro and rhythm remind
me much of the "reggae got
soul" style of Toots & The
Maytals. It's gritty in a Memphis soul
way, yet smooth and punchy. Great horn
arrangements help to accentuate the
confident lyrics which express the
Lord is coming "to be forever
with his saints to reign". See if
you don't almost expect Mr. Hibbert to
join in for a guest vocal!
The title track is a roots-infused
reggae track that features powerful
spoken words by Sister Kay from the
book of Revelation. Again, the
arrangements are tight with a
well-established drum beat, solid
reggae bass and outstanding vocals.
Warfare sound effects, including
blasts and explosions, give strong
emphasis to the message- "the
battle of Armageddon is gonna be
hot". The spoken passages are
very compelling as are the sung parts
and musical accompaniment.
"Armageddon"
is simply an incredibly good song that
attains reggae authenticity both
sonically and lyrically.
Also in the mix, are some spicy
calypso sounds with the powerful
"Satan Time Expire". The
production and arrangements are
nothing short of dynamic. Steel drums
even work their way into this anthem
which is a call for believers to
realize that God is in control and
that victory can be theirs!
"God Can Turn It Around" is
traditional gospel that encourages the
listener with a message of assurance.
I love the lyrics, "you don't
need a psychic to turn it around, you
don't need a politician to turn it
around, you don't need a scientist to
turn it around, but the blood of Jesus
can turn it around!". Can't help
but put a smile on your face. It's
hand-clapping fun and rejoicing with
this one!
Roots reggae returns with Morris
showing her versatility with a rather
sweet vocal on "The Stone".
Reggae-wise, it's the real deal.
Stories from the bible are recounted
and woven together with the chorus,
"refuse, - the stone that the
builders refuse will be the headstone
of the corner, the stone that builders
refuse". The Jewels again sparkle
with vocals reminiscent of the
I-Three. It's a tune you'll want to
run again fe real.
"The Longer I Serve Christ"
is more traditional gospel with some
bluesy guitar seasoning this message
of love for the Saviour. It's amazing
how this album moves from one style to
the other without ever skipping a
beat. An upbeat calypso-soca riddim
powers "Shake The Devil
Off", which encourages us to lift
up Jesus and bring the devil down and
urges the believer to live holy. This
is a serious church tune with a very
catchy and danceable sound.
The album closes with a reprise of
"The Stone", which includes
some nice dub effects. The live
musicianship really shines here. It's
roots massive with a message for one
and all.
"Armageddon"
from Kay Morris & The Jewels is a
must-have for fans of Caribbean gospel
and reggae gospel. In listening to it,
it's no wonder that this group has won
"Best Female Gospel Artist"
three times at the Canadian Reggae
Music Awards. Highly recommended.
-Mike
Roots
STAR
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