NEWS
EVENTS
Jesse Royal's 'Lily Of Da Valley' is pure authentic reggae
Reggae has seen a recent influx of talent, from Protoje, Samory I, Chronixx and Kabaka Pyramid. Now there's a new name in town, Jesse Royal's recent debut album Lily of da Valley marks him out as one to watch.
The young reggae star has no qualms drawing us in from the get-go with album opener '400 Years', a stand out roots anthem that shows off Royal's strong but heartfelt vocals. He sings, "All the people really want is peace and equality. Talking 'bout reparation, for the Black Nation. Africa awaits... "
Not one to disappoint, Royal follows up with another banger featuring Jo Mersa Marley. 'Generation' uses Jo's compelling voice to urge listeners to stand up for what is right. Other uplifting songs such as 'Life's Sweet', 'Real Love', 'Full Moon' and 'Roll Me Something Good' are carried by a steady drum and bass and Jesse's infectious chanting style.
The finale 'Jah Will See Us Through' thunders with various vocal styles and instrumentation. But the song stays unmoved in its passionate message, "Tell my nieces/ and my nephews/ that Jah will see us through." Jesse's hope, faith and pain shine so easily throughout this LP and for a first feature-length release, Jesse Royal has stayed true to his name.
