Luciano
Jah Words
Album · Reggae · 2005
On Jah Words, Luciano rarely strays from themes of righteousness and stubborn belief. Both “Many Things” and “In God or Man” urge “revolt against all evil” and instruct listeners to “fight the Babylon system,” the latter a sentiment that also buoys the title track. Though the opening “Are You With Me” predicts End Times, Luciano never sounds strident or particularly angry; even a lyrical addition to “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” (“I’m sick and tired of the war”) seems more resigned than anything. Still, the album conveys a goodheartedness that reflects Luciano’s self-proclaimed role as a teacher (“Foot Soljah”) and also comes through in several comradely love songs (“Angel Heart,” “Perfect Love”). Most of these sentiments are carried on electro versions of time-tested skank rhythms, though “Why Should I” and “Look Deep Within” place the artist’s soft but resolute voice against dancehall beats. The overall effect is one that sticks close to the roots.