Uncle Beres
Image Courtesy of VP Records
Beres Hammond’s new release, “My Kinda Girl,” signals a shift in the cultural landscape of reggae music. To speak of place, most notable, is the fusion between dancehall and reggae styles. The team at Jambian Music and Beres Hammond know how to harmoniously bridge the best of both styles; the boldness of dancehall and the mellowness of lover’s rock reggae. Taking this further, is the tonality of the musical arrangement and legitimacy of the lyrics, which caters to the cultural space within the global mindsets. While there are many cultural shifts, the yearning for acceptance remains constant. For the roots, well it is undoubtedly anchored by the nutrients of an accomplished vocalist and cultural narrator, lovingly known as, “Uncle Beres.” Now, who else can teach us about love than our Uncle Beres?
Imparting wisdom on a delicate yet rugged and ambiguous topic as love is a complex task. This is where the best of worlds; styles, talents and generations are intricately composed. The tempo of the delivery reassures listeners that while the world is changing, we can still trust Uncle Beres. Although mellow, every verse imparts wisdom with a smile and self assured confidence. There is a message for the men; a virtuous woman will demonstrate her love in the most simplistic manner. As for the women, well she is being taught how to make her man feel happy. What they both receive is an everlasting firework of unconditional love. No cars, furs, jewels or sexual calisthenics required. To underscore the message, there are no vocal dramatics, simply a straight talk on how to identify sincerity and respond with valor.
The timing of the composition is flawless. Uncle Beres and the team cleverly narrated a theme that will increase their reach and connection to global music lovers. Noteworthy is the accent of the xylophone at the beginning and at the crescendo of the song. Also impressive is the dialogue between instruments. In particular, we interpret the electric guitar represents the female passionately responding to the male vocals and bass guitar. At times, the overlap and tension between the electric guitar and the vocals feels like anxious lovers flirting. Then, somewhat like lovers who are swept away in each other’s gaze, there are moments of shared harmony between instruments.
While this song will not compete with the hustler’s anthem, it has a well deserved space. It would be interesting to see the returns on marketing campaigns in Europe, West Africa, and Cuba. As for North America, this song will have a permanent spot in many playlist. At the end of the day, who would not welcome giving and receiving love in the most simplistic manner while gaining the greatest rewards? Not even the hustlers would complain. Zen Creatif, AG.
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