The Strong Foundation label came out of nowhere in 2004 to release this excellent compilation album, one that features an impressive array of A-list singers and DJs (Yami Bolo, Sugar Minott, Rocker-T, and Ranking Joe, among others) over a set of powerful homemade rhythms -- a strong foundation, indeed. The album's 13 tracks are built on six different rhythms, the first of which seems to be the one after which the album is named. Yami Bolo is first out of the gate, singing at the top of his form on the very fine "Jah Love Is ...
Read More
The Strong Foundation label came out of nowhere in 2004 to release this excellent compilation album, one that features an impressive array of A-list singers and DJs (Yami Bolo, Sugar Minott, Rocker-T, and Ranking Joe, among others) over a set of powerful homemade rhythms -- a strong foundation, indeed. The album's 13 tracks are built on six different rhythms, the first of which seems to be the one after which the album is named. Yami Bolo is first out of the gate, singing at the top of his form on the very fine "Jah Love Is Always There." Sugar Minott threatens to steal the show from him, however, on his own crooningly lovely "Reward for Us," based on the same rhythm. It's Ranking Joe, Rocker-T, and Norris Man who provide the album's high points, though, with their three different but complementary takes on the album's third rhythm, a spare but powerful dancehall track. There's a slight surprise later on, in the form of Fiji's fine "Rise and Stand." The backing track sounds naggingly familiar until you realize that it's a subtly adapted arrangement of the Clash's "Revolution Rock" rhythm. Rasiword takes things out in style as he masterfully rides a dubby mix of the "Jah Love" rhythm on "Majestic Lion & Lioness." (The dub mix that closes the album is something of an anticlimactic afterthought.) Very highly recommended overall. ~ Rick Anderson, Rovi
Read Less