Dub Power (TMG, 2005)

I have seen the future of reggae, and it is Trumystic. While of recent, dancehall has captured the attention of the masses, I can certainly foresee a time when the mainstream discards it as a fad. In its place, an act like Trumystic seems to be a logical choice. Blending roots reggae with dub, R&B, rock, and pop with a striking flair, this genre-splicing band seems poised to conquer the world...figuratively speaking. As judged by Dub Power, I'd describe Trumystic's sound as "acid jazz reggae," sort of like what Brand New Heavies might resemble if they were a reggae band. Furthering that comparison is the fact that they are fronted by a female singer, Kirsty Rock, who also plays the melodica and organ. As strong a vocalist as she is, Rock's melodies and singing style aren't always traditionally reggae-inclined, so some purists may balk as she belts out big, drawn-out notes rather than the more staccato reggae sound. Stylistic qualms aside, though, the songs on Dub Power are hard to resist. You'll find yourself drawn to them like marinara sauce to your brand new khakis. While the Gwen Stefani-like pop/rock inclination of tracks like "Foxy" (incorporating Foxy's disco-era "Get Off") and "Stand Up" or the over-the-top operatic and classical string sound of "Sa Dub" or the acoustic Dido stylings of "Well" might not appeal to everyone, Trumystic maintains such a deep, true dub foundation in its music (including the pounding, '70s-styled, rootsy dub tracks "Rockers," "Black Like You," "Johnny," and "Trio," plus an entire dub disc, for you touchy types who may be distracted by the vocals) that you never feel like they've lost sight of their roots. Check 'em out at www.trumystic.net.