Artist: Aswad Album: Rise and Shine Again!

Year: 1995
Duration: 0:0-1

Rise and Shine Again!: A Critique of Aswad's Latest Album

Aswad is a British reggae band that has been active since the late 1970s. They have released several albums over the years and have had a few chart-topping hits. Their latest release, Rise and Shine Again!, is a 10-track album that brings back the sound that they are known for. In this post, we will be taking a closer look at the album, the band, the genre of the album, the best tracks, and some critical thoughts.
Aswad has been creating music for over four decades, and they are one of the most prominent British reggae bands. They are known for their smooth vocals and their ability to blend different genres such as soul, funk, and even rock into their reggae sound. Rise and Shine Again! is no different. The album is a fusion of different sounds and styles that showcase their versatility.
The genre of the album is, of course, reggae, but it also features elements of dancehall, dub, and even a little bit of jazz. This adds some variety to the album and keeps the listener engaged. The album also features a wide range of instruments, including horns, keyboards, guitar, and percussion. The use of live instrumentation adds to the authenticity of their sound and is a refreshing change from some of the more electronically produced reggae tracks.
The album's best songs are undoubtedly “By My Side,” “Locked Away,” and “One Perfect Love.” “By My Side” is a laid-back track that features some smooth vocals from the lead singer, and the chorus is catchy and gets stuck in your head. “Locked Away” is a more upbeat track that has a dancehall vibe, and the drums and bassline carry the rhythm. “One Perfect Love” is by far the most melodic track on the album, and the vocal harmonies are beautiful.
The most innovative part of the album is the incorporation of different genres into their reggae sound. They blend different styles seamlessly, and it sounds like it comes naturally to them. This shows how versatile the band is and how they are not afraid to experiment with their sound. However, the album seems to stick to the same formula that they have been using for years, and there isn't much growth or evolution in terms of their sound.
Overall, Rise and Shine Again! is a decent album that should please any Aswad fan. It's not groundbreaking, but it's a solid effort that showcases the band's strengths. However, the album does not offer much in terms of new sounds or growth. It is essentially the same sound that they have been producing for years. Nevertheless, the album is worth listening to, and it's a great throwback to the heyday of reggae in the UK.
In conclusion, Rise and Shine Again! is a decent addition to the Aswad discography. It stays true to their reggae roots and adds some variety to their sound by incorporating other genres. The album's highlights are undoubtedly the vocal performances and the live instrumentation. However, the album doesn't push any boundaries or elevate their sound to another level. It is still worth a listen, especially if you are a fan of the band or the reggae genre in general.