*GUEST REVIEW*
Based in Los Angeles and having achieved ever greater success internationally in recent years, Zema (pronounced Zay-MAH, by the way) continues a run of strong roots reggae releases with Overcome. Like her 2003 disc Black Sheep, her latest was recorded in Jamaica with a noteworthy supporting cast, this time including Sly and Robbie, Abijah, the Gladiators, Ansel Collins, and Sticky Thompson. What makes Zema's reggae so appealing is her humble sincerity and knack for composing and singing songs that combine melodic hooks with intricate reggae arrangements. There's nothing lofty or presumptuous about her, just wisely simple lyrical messages (often based upon the Biblical excerpts she cites in the liner notes) nestled in songs with sharp but not overly hard guitar and keyboard accents and straightforward vocals above real drums and bass riddims (highlighted by three concluding dub versions). Overcome is sweetened with such timely sentiments as "Love is the Greatest," the turn-the-other-cheek reasoning of "Overcome Evil with Good," and faith affirmers "Don't Give Up" and "Your Mercy Endureth."  But Zema can play it tough too, as she shows on more ominous tracks like "Vision of Trouble" and "Bite and Blow."  Then there's "Stoned Love," which you might grinningly believe has something to do with ganja until the lyrics set you straight with a message of all-important unity. Zema's continual seeking of reggae's higher ground is a quest you'll want to join in. 

- Tom Orr