Faya News/No Backward (Freedom Fighters, 2003)

Freedom Fighters is a French collective of dancehall artists whose raw sound and prolific output has drawn quite a following.  This release samples two of the group's releases, Faya News and No Backward.  The leader of the group is Jah Mac 4, a DJ of Nigerian origin who will no doubt draw comparisons to Capleton, with his fierce, growling delivery and cultural messages.  I can comment on his lyrics, interestingly enough, because they are in English, which of course highlights comparisons to Capleton even more.  The selections from Faya News are blistering dancehall numbers that don't rely on well-worn riddims that have been recycled within Jamaican dancehall.  Meanwhile, the No Backward cuts are more of the rootsy dancehall variety, so there's something for everyone here.  No matter what the style, though, the quality is top-notch, with every track being solid.  While I can't vouch for the other songs on the two albums represented here, these selections should more than satisfy listeners eagerly awaiting the next Capleton album. See freedomfighters.ipowa.com.