2008 Woodie Awards
Damian Marley scores with "Welcome to Jamrock
The feel behind this new album was not the least bit disappointing, and Damian does the legendary Marley name proud
Phalary Long
Issue date: 9/29/05 Section: No Limits
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Bob Marley. As I mention Marley's name, the thought of marijuana, freedom and one love comes to mind. However, half of Marley's followers don't have an idea who Marley's last son is: Damian Marley. Damian Marley is everything that Bob Marley was, revolutionary, fighting single-handedly with music as their weapon.
"Welcome To Jamrock" is a must pick up album for 2005. Never mind 2005, it's a must pick up album, period.
2005 has been a disappointment for the music scene; with albums from 50 cent, Paul Wall and The Yin Yang Twins. Damian Marley has been a solace and a much needed breath of fresh air for music.
Welcome To Jamrock was anticipated after the absolute gem that was "Halfway Tree." Halfway Tree won a Grammy for Best Reggae Album in 2001.
Damian Marley has derived into a force to be reckoned with. With his God-given talent, Damian Marley crosses all boundaries with his third album which ultimately took four years to make. The album showcases: Raggae, Hip Hop, Dance hall and Rock with Black Thought from The Roots, Nas, Eek-A-Mouse, and the other Marley's: Stephen, Julian and Ziggy as guests.
Welcome To Jamrock presents something familiar to Bob Marley's followers: positive messages, political beliefs to love and freedom. Welcome to Jamrock opens up with the outstanding Confrontation and introduces the album with a phenomenal Bunny Wailer and Marcus
Garvey speech.
Damian Marley's music tackles different topics, from the sentimental love ballads There For You and Beautiful to Welcome To Jamrock which blends street poetry with an element of social protest inviting listeners to the reality of every day Jamaica. The throwback jam The Master Has Come Back is an entertaining listen with a catchy hook. The party anthem All Night is a fun ska flavored song.
Hip Hop fans are in for a treat with Pimpas Paradise which features Black Thought from The Roots and Nas, the definite highlight, is fantastic as he rips his verse on Road To Zion.
The spirit of Bob Marley is shown through Damian's groundbreaking Move which is Damian's take on Exodus.
For The Babies conveys a consciousness inspiring individuals to open up their minds and see the truth of their surroundings.
Hey Girl and We're Gonna Make It delivers an excellent rare roots moments on the album. Bounty Killer and Eek A Mouse add sparks to the spectacular Khaki Suit. By the albums closing cuts In 2 Deep and Khaki Suit, Damian has polished himself as the poster child for Raggae.
Damian Marley gives the listeners an outstanding album and lives up to the hype that surrounds the album. You won't be disappointed with Welcome To Jamrock because Marley proves how revolutionary of a weapon the album is, furthering the legacy that comes with the Marley name.