Search - Gregory Isaacs :: Dapper Slapper

The case could be made that Gregory Isaacs is the most original vocalist to come out of Jamaica, including Bob Marley. He redefined reggae for himself, handling its volatile emotion, rebel spirit, and Afro-erotic rawness with a degree of savoir-faire to rival Sinatra's. And like America's celebrated crooner, Isaacs lets his instincts guide him to the heart of a song, without overvocalizing or hyper-dramatizing. In a reggae world full of sharks eager to bite a winning style, no one has been able to approach Isaacs's. Unfortunately, the use of the past tense here is deliberate. Tough living took its toll on the Cool Ruler's sound and writing years ago. Still, that distinctively laid-back sophistication remains intact, and of the numerous discs Isaacs insists on churning out, this one finds him in relatively strong voice, bouncing off some classically lovely reggae rhythms. Respect is therefore also due to producer-bassist Flabba Holt (who produced Isaacs's huge pop crossover hit, "Night Nurse") and a musician lineup that includes saxman extraordinaire Dean Fraser. --Elena Oumano