Review

The Wailers: One World (Sony Music Latin)

Bob Marley's legacy continues in the shape of his former band, the iconic and legendary band The Wailers led by Aston Barrett Jr, son of founding member and bassist, Aston "Familyman" Barrett. Like it's founder, there is a strong sense songwriting prowess on offer. The opener and the first single from this sizzling return to form is "One World, One Prayer" ft. Skip Marley, Farruko, Shaggy and Cedella Marley. This upbeat slice of pure reggae brilliance features some marvellous interplay with Shaggy's trademark interjections along with Bob Marley's grandson doing him proud with some fantastic lush, Latino loveliness in the form of Farruko.

The blessedness continues with the guitar riff-led "Philosophy Of Life" (which reggae is!) leading into "When Love Is Right (Ft. Julian Marley) another stone-cold gem with some ripping harmonica courtesy of the agile, Frederic Yonnet. The minor key goes over to the major key in the shape of the sunny and jazzy sounding "Walk And Talk" (Never Go Astray) you can hear the spirit of Marley on this one big time! In fact, he roams the natural mystic on many of these tunes... "What A Shame" sees some fantastic 'wah-wah' guitar take centre stage, giving way to a skanking duet entitled "Destiny", possibly the strongest cut on this fantastic platter.

One thing is a certain, this collection of great songs are going to open the floodgates to a newer, younger generation, keen on uplifting and contemporary reggae. And one that certainly is resonating with me, "Love Will Find You" (ask my editor!) hits hard but you'll feel no pain.

Props to producer Emilio Estefan's crystal clear production and to the drummer whose rimshot 'gunshots' send ripples of reverberation that go straight to the heart. Welcome back The Wailers and for showcasing the knack at creating dynamic and memorable music!
Words Emrys Baird