Sadeke Brooks, STAR Writer

Album:Be Prepared

Artiste: Jamelody

Genre: Reggae

Rating: 4 out of 5

For someone born in Trinidad Jamelody has managed to capture the authentic reggae sound of Jamaica while incorporating his background in the church on his album Be Prepared.

The VP Records produced album was released earlier this year and has songs with a wide range of topics.

The sound of drums on Ithiopa was quite an appropriate start for the album.

With his strong voice he touched some high pitches in Give Thanks. This has a different sound and it is always important to give thanks for what one receives in life

On When The Saints Go To Worship with the aid of the choir the song sounds like something done by Donnie McClurkin. This helps to show his level of versatility . The song is spiritual and for that reason people from all backgrounds and religious groups can take a listen.

On this album there is no hard or heavy music that is likely to cause deafness. It is smooth sailing for the most part with a mix of different genres.

R&B is included on the compilation especially in songs like All That I Have Prayed For. This is the type of song that allows for relaxation. It also has a decent hook that is quite memorable.

pleasant renditions

He did pleasant renditions of It is So Hard To Say Goodbye to Yesterday and Ribbon In The Sky and he sounds smooth. Some artistes allow their backup vocals to overpower their voice but Jamelody is not one of them as his voice is distinct but still blends well with them.

It is often disappointing to hear cover version of songs that help make an album. However, Jamelody has managed to make both songs his own with his signature voice and style. His voice sounds really crisp and on point.

In sections he sounds like Garnett Silk because of his tone and musical range.

His sound is consistent throughout and no song is of a lesser quality than the other.

After listening the album non-stop to about Ribbon In The Sky, one has the potential to get bored but Love Crazy, Natural Black and Capleton help to pump up the pace with their authentic reggae sound.

Love Crazy has some 'skanking' potential with drum, guitar and saxophone.

Quite a decent one

The collaboration High Grade with Natural Black is quite a decent one. Their strong voices harmonise well .Capleton jumps in to show Jamelody how to 'Burn Dem Up'. It has a nice vibe with Capleton adding some of his signature styles to it.

The album itself is a good listen and throughout it has things that people can relate to whether it is love, struggles or giving thanks.