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New Day (Ruff Stuff, 1997) Rising Lion, AKA Danny Dred, is a New York reggae singer with an eclectic sound that reflects a variety of American and Jamaican influences. His primary specialty is roots, but you can also hear some rock steady, ska, dancehall, dub, and lovers rock, not to mention R&B, hip-hop, and rock 'n roll. As you might guess, the traditional Jamaican sounds consistently outperform the American ones. For instance, the lovers of "Hope Life Treats You Well," the ska/rock steady of "Soon Come," and the roots of "Rastaman" and the slightly Marley-esque "Let Light Shine" are highlights, while the straight R&B of "Peace 'n Love," the vocal samples of "Who a Feel It," and the rock guitars in "Dat Woman Is Gone" and "Lion Band Sound" contribute to a somewhat annoying pop sound. Still, this doesn't necessarily make these songs bad; most are in fact pretty good. Only 3 tracks, though, truly stand out: "Let Light Shine," "Rastaman," and "Hope Life Treats You Well." Rising Lion switches back and forth between serious, strict roots (You might remember his Israel Vibration-like "Landmine" from the R.A.W. 2000 compilation, which, unfortunately, isn't on New Day.) and a light, upbeat stylee that reveals an impressive range, although I could do without that part of his range that compels him to delve into R&B, pop, and rock. |
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