STRICTLY THE BEST 45 (CD REVIEW)

TITLE: STRICTLY THE BEST 45

ARTIST: VARIOUS ARTISTS

LABEL: VP

RATINGS:**1/2

Of the two volumes of Strictly The Best (44 & 45) that are released simultaneously, the dance hall set is usually the least favorable for critics, due mainly to the explicit lyrics of some the material included. This selection of songs is much better than previous volumes, maybe Chris Chin is finally hearing the cries of the pens, or perhaps he has no other choice because  this series is really in need of a resurrection. The fact is, most of these tracks have been released on other compilations earlier in the year, therefore reducing VP Records’ offering to stale and outdated!

However, big national tunes like “One By One” by Laza Morgan & Mavado, “Things Just Ain’t The Same” by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, and “Got To Luv You” with Sean Paul & Alexis Jordan, are wise inclusions. Most of the other tracks are basically locals on the Jamaican music scene. As usual, Strictly The Best 45 serves the its purpose as a collection of what’s happening in the dance hall, and if this is your thing, you need to get your copy.