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Sizzla- Ragga Ragga Ragga 2013- Soca Gold 2013- Morgan Heritage

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Sizzla
The Messiah

VP

Here's a great set of old school reggae, much of which carries a political, Rasta or otherwise socially-conscious message within its lilting rhythms. A perfect example is "Center of Attraction," a tune lamenting the treatment of Black people and promoting reparations but set to a joyous melody and upbeat groove for Sizzla to sing the song's insanely catchy chorus over. "Look How Many Years" is in a similar vein, "Psalms 121" is chilled-out reggae with sweet vocal parts both from Sizzla and his lady back-up singers and "No Wicked Man" layers on the dub effects. If you're not yet hip to this beloved artist and want more after you hear this new music be aware that there's plenty out there to be had; The Messiah is Sizzla's 70th album.

Ragga Ragga Ragga 2013
Various Artists
Greensleeves

Greensleeves puts out one of these hardcore dancehall compilations every year and this time out the 14-song set features bangers like I Octane's "Suffer Too Long," "Struggle" from DJ Genius, "Non Stop" by Gyptian and "So Mi Tan" by Konshens. Mavado is the big winner this time out, checking in with the trifecta "It Ain't Easy," "At the Top" and "Box of Money;" also representing with one song each are Popcaan, Tommy Lee Sparta, Busy Signal, Romain Virgo, Demarco and Aidonia & Diablo. The lyrics to dancehall songs are often risqu� and some of these tunes are typically naughty.

Soca Gold 2013
Various Artists
VP

There's no better place to celebrate Carnival than in the Caribbean where the festivities are usually soundtrack to vibrant soca music. This compilation collects the best of the current Carnival party anthems including hits from Trinidad & Tobago in Bunji Garlin's "Differentology" and Denise "Saucy" Belfon's "Winning Queen." Others contributing include Super Blue, Blaxx, Ravi B, Iwer George, Lil Rick, Rikki Jai, Basil Yarde and Edwin Yearwood.

Morgan Heritage
Here Come the Kings

VP

With band members busy with solo projects, Morgan Heritage hasn't put out an album for five years. But here Peetah, Una, Gramps, Lukes and Mr. Mojo Morgan make the wait worthwhile with the roots reggae title tune, the hip-hop and dancehall-inspired "Man Has Forgotten," the soulful R&B-flavored reggae of "Perfect Love Song" and "Love Stoned" with guest Shaggy. The group also turns in a surprising cover; a well-done rendition of the Michael Jackson/Paul McCartney hit "Girl is Mine."

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