Strictly the Best, Volume 58 Reggae

Artwork: VP Records

Renown as excellent curators of reggae music, VP Music Group presents another impressive installment of Strictly the Best, Volume 58. A premium album of fourteen songs featuring the talents of Alborosie, Chronixx, Ginjah, Maxi Priest, Tarrus Riley, Raging Fyah, Shuga, Beres Hammond, Romain Virgo, Christopher Martin, Jah9, Nesbeth, DJ Kurt Riley, Konshens, Kenyatta Hill, and Etana. Now available for pre-order, the album is set for release on January 25, 2019.

With the expertise of vocalists, producers, musicians, songwriters, and sound engineers, Strictly the Best, Volume 58 covers the landscape of roots and lovers’ rock reggae. Many of the selected tracks originate from current successful albums, as Beres Hammond’s “My Kind of Girl” from his album, Never Ending. As well, Alborosie’s “Contradiction” featuring Chronixx, from his album, Unbreakable: Alborosie Meets the Wailers United. As such, every selection has a cultural keynote speaker for every mood and situation. And to increase the value of amplification, the album is void of parental advisory and inflammatory language which provides an opportunity to share the history and life lessons of reggae music.

Of attention is Etana’s mind altering vocals that revitalizes the cultural space with her performance of “See Dem a Come.” A musical landmark instituted by Joseph “Culture” Hill from his album, Two Sevens Clash, in 1977. And adding to this oral history is Etana’s rendition, a relevant and relatable mastery of sound and lyrics perfectly executed.

With such a stellar group of artists, it is tempting to quickly sample each selection. But we suggest reserving time to appreciate every moment of the 53.18 minutes anthology. And share this album with a friend. Because, we are certain each listening session will provide an additional perspective. Someone will have a story to tell; from Friday at the barber and the manicurist, to Saturday’s get together, and Sunday’s supper and dominoes. And there is still time for the best listening session, your weekly commute to work and at the gym when you are guilt free to press replay.