A Review of Dancehall Dynamite CD

Artist: Various Artists
Label: Relativity
Genre: Reggae/Dancehall
Styles: Ragga, Club/Dance

Critics’ Rating: ***
This compilation is a cross-section of the subtle textures within Jamaican Dancehall.  From electrifying hardcore Dancehall to sexy Lovers’ rhythms to Rastafarian Roots-conscious Reggae, Dancehall Dynamite features some of the music’s pioneers as well as rising talents on the scene. The emphasis is on a balanced diet of the modern Jamaican sound.

The raunchy, legendary DJ Cutty Ranks’ “DJ Riding West” is tempered by the virtues of Rasta DJ Sizzla on “Good Ways,” while the sultry bedroom anthem “Physical Attraction” by Richie Stephens and Crissy D is followed shortly thereafter by Merciless’ ode to motherhood, “Mama Cooking.”

Dancehall Dynamite contains equal dosages for purists and for club lovers: the hardcore sounds of Frisco Kid, Scare Dem Crew and veteran Yellowman are matched by the crossover appeal of mega-DJs Shaggy and Beenie Man, and the humorous “Big Man/Little Youth” by rising stars Red Rat and Goofy, appear along with the call for peace, “Put Down Your Weapon” by Yami Bolo and Capleton. The pulsating rhythms are provided by such masters as Sly Dunbar, Steelie and Clevie, Danny Browne, and Bobby Digital. The album is a danceable mélange of the various subgenres of Jamaican Dancehall. ~ by M.F. DiBella, All Music Guide

CREDITS :
M. Peggy Quattro – Executive Producer
Palmer Williams – Compilation Producer
Performers: Shaggy, Beenie Man, Frisco Kid, Yellowman, Yami Bolo, Capleton, Rayvon, Merciless, Scare Dem Crew, Red Rat & Goofy, Richie Stephens, Terror Fabulous, Sizzla, Cutty Ranks
Producers: Andrew Bradford, Jack Scorpio, Bobby Digital, Danny Browne, Robert Livingston
Bill Lacey – Mastering