Various Artists - One Drop Anthems 2007

Conscious Number Three

Reviewed by Hans on October 05, 2007

In 2005 and 2006 Greensleeves brought us the first two editions of a new compilation series called 'The Biggest One Drop Anthems'. Both double CDs are filled with roots and conscious songs and are performed by the 'Now Generation' artists. For example, songs like 'Jamaica' by Jah Cure, 'Serious Times' by Gyptian, 'Ganja Farmer' by Marlon Asher and 'Jah Time' by Fantan Mojah. Tunes which were played at almost every reggae event in Europe. Big present-day reggae songs, most of them previously released on 7 inch and compiled by Greensleeves on these succesfull compilation CDs. Greensleeves is continuing the story by releasing a third compilation. This time, no double CD, instead you get one CD together with one DVD.

The CD opens with 'People's Choice' by Ray Darwin followed by 'Rastafari Anthem' by Alborosie. By using a pretty good Studio One remake of 'Roof Over My Head' on 'People's Choice' and a sample of Zap Pow's 'Last War' in 'Rastafari Anthem' they bring back reggae history. A wicked start of this CD. Zap Pow's reggae legend Beres Hammond, and Buju Banton are both presented on this CD with 'I'm Gonna Do My Best', produced by veteran Germain. For some reason this production sounds if it was recorded in the '90s.

New names in here are Tami Chynn, Nesbeth, Etana, Pressure, Munga and Ginjah. The songs performed by the later three continue the vibe of the previous two 'One Drop Anthems' releases. Same goes for the established names like Lutan Fyah, Jah Mali, Chezidek, Jah Cure and Sizzla. Cure uses Sly and Robbie's sweet 'All Star' rhythm for his song called 'Sunshine'. A great song.

The DVD contains 9 of the 18 songs and includes a surprise special about the Sicilian born singer Alborosie.

A great release for all of you who like to have some of the biggest 2007 anthems - so go and buy it! Big up Ray Darwin, Alborosie, Jah Cure and Greensleeves.

Hans - Roots Archives, October 2007
Edited by Leggo Rocker