Jah Cure performs during his album launch at the Cable and Wireless Golf Academy on Tuesday night.

With the release of his highly anticipated album, Universal Cure, reggae singer Jah Cure hopes to cement his place as one of Jamaica's premier reggae artistes.

While incarcerated for eight years on a rape charge, Jah Cure recorded a trio of hit songs, True Reflections, Love Is and Longing For, which were overflowing with soul and emotion and which connected with his fans.

Jah Cure said he hopes the 16-track Universal Cure, which includes the hot, new single Call On Me, will exceed all expectations.

"Well, I hope this one will go as far as any great album has ever gone before. With the help of The Almighty, anything is possible," said Jah Cure, moments after he performed at his album launch on Tuesday night at the Cable and Wireless Golf Academy.

Jah Cure, who delivered a heart-stopping performance and was joined onstage by Phyllisia Ross for Call On Me, said this album is special to him.

given the chance

"Well, because all my life I wasn't given the chance to push my album, and now that I have the chance with this one, I decided to give it my all. This is what Jah Cure is all about - righteousness - and the album speaks for itself," he said.

The start of the launch was delayed by two and a half hours but once Jah Cure, known for his unique voice and lyrical ability, graced the stage, it was only a matter of time before the atmosphere was transformed. He was excellently backed by his band Antidote, led by Nigel Staff.

A number of entertainers attended the launch, including Bounty Killer, Tarrus Riley, Dean Frazier, Wayne Marshall, Tami Chynn and I'shawna Smith.

Meanwhile, publicist Dennis Howard said he believes the album, Jah Cure's fifth, will surpass all of his previous work.

"I think it's (album) going to be great. It's well-produced, well-mastered and the songs are the kind of songs that will last for a very long time. I am very pleased and I think it's the best work he has done so far," he said.

Tarrus Riley (left) and I'Shawna at the launch.

Phyllisia Ross and Jah Cure perform 'Call On Me'.

Legendary musician Dean Frazier (left) and Clyde McKenzie talk music at Jah Cure's album launch. - Roxroy McLean Photos