Soul Reggae

The first album from Beres Hammond is a reggae soul classic. A must have for soul and reggae music lovers. There's a reason this album is called Soul Reggae instead of "Reggae Soul." Soul gets top billing because the emphasis is on seductive crooning and beautifully orchestrated '70s R&B, with occasional reggae sprinkled throughout. Gifted vocalist Beres Hammond establishes himself as one of the most soulful Jamaicans this side ofToots Hibbert, yet where Hibbertevokes the gritty style of Otis Redding, Hammond is more reminiscent of the languid yearning of Marvin Gaye and the Isley Brothers. His counterpart on Soul Reggae, guitarist/producer/arranger Willie Lindo, crafts several impressive faux-Philly soul backdrops worthy of the O'Jays (such as the excellent Don't Wait Too Long) and provides the perfect settings for Hammond's romantic ballads.