Busy Street (Mystik Muzik, 2004 [orig. released 1999])

If you're like me, you may have run out looking for the individual albums from the artists on the world reggae showcase R.A.W. 2000, some successfully -- like Reggae Cowboys, Isaac Haile Selassie, Jerri Jheto, Root Awakening, and Tonca -- some not so successfully -- Mystic Vibrations included.  Busy Street was originally released in 1999, but distribution appears to have been limited, and in 2004 it was remixed and re-released, with an added dub version of the title track that was included on R.A.W. 2000.  And thank goodness, because this album needs to be heard.  It's quite simply a modern classic, a gorgeous testament to the power of music.  Although Mystic Vibrations (not to be confused with Mystic Revealers) is now based in South Carolina, the group -- specifically, lead singer Charlton "Ras Ric" Williams -- has roots in Jamaica, and they meld the sound of both countries perfectly.  There is a soulful, mildly pop appeal to their brand of roots and lovers rock that should draw in both reggae diehards and newcomers alike.  Listening to Busy Street, I can't help but feel like I'm hearing an early '80s (complete with occasional synth elements) classic set from the Wailing Souls, Twinkle Brothers, or Gladiators.  (I could even compare their sound to an English-language Gondwana.)  Every song is heartfelt and irresistible, ranging from the pining love songs "Now You've Grown" and "Still on My Mind" to the blazing cultural roots of "Babylon System" and "Tell Me."  Do yourself a favor and check it out at cdbaby.com