Next in the Inspiration Information series on Strut we see Ashley Beedle team up with legendary reggae vocalist Horace Andy. Horace Andy is by no means an unknown vocalist, having great success in his homeland, and being bought into the mainstream spotlight most notably by Massive Attack on their debut Blue Lines. You cannot mistake his voice, it is so distinctive, and has made its mark heavily even on his work with Massive Attack, sounding sombre yet uplifting, a rare skill for any vocalist.
Recorded in an intensive five day studio session, Ashley Beedle has used this collaboration effectively, laying down modern funk tracks, but retaining elements of reggae and dub, injecting a summer breeze into the whole album of infectious grooves and tough basslines. The house oriented tracks don’t work as well, something seems to be missing, not quite taking full advantage of Horace Andy’s vocal tones. Rasta Don’t sees Beedle try his hand at dancehall rhythms, which works well, something different for Andy, as his trademark vocal highlights only entering briefly, content to chant a different style.
Overall a very enjoyable album, with only a couple of weaker moments that disappoint, but worthy of a listen, just to hear something new sung by Horace Andy, who would have to be one of the all time greatest voices. This series is one to watch, they keep getting stronger.
Wayne Stronell
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