Entertainment

Lutan's first impression LASTS

THEY SAY FIRST impressions last, and Lutan Fyah's debut album is one of those things.

Thumping basslines blended with screaming horns, trumpets, cymbals and other percussion instruments are what help make Lutan Fyah stand out on Time And Place. In fact, the fusion of his chants and the music are what reminds us of what music is supposed to be- music.

The beats are a clever and harmonious mixture of Roots Reggae, Dancehall, and even Hip Hop. The mixture seems seamless, making it ripe for the pickings of foreign markets as well as for local ears.

His topics also score big for him as they are spread well. In the context of so many Rastafarians blasting this and blasting that, it is refreshing hearing him chanting that he is 'Stress Free' and giving thanks.

Being from the crime plagued Spanish Town, one would probably assume his topics would only reflect cops, curfews, and criminals. Lutan however cuts across themes of giving thanks, the demise of farming, love, and ambition among others.

Lutan Fyah deserves his four stars for this album. He makes only one collaboration, that with Yami Bolo for Don't Waste Your Time. This is a plus for him as an upcoming act, because the Yami Bolo name spreads far and wide in the Roots Reggae world.

Where Lutan could have been better, however, is if the team had included the track which had made him become such a visible man in the business. Peace In Spanish Town is a gem, and somewhat of an anthem in the troubled old capital. It has taken the dancehalls and got much respect, and with the present situation facing the town, it's release with the album would make it more relevant to the times.

Despite that, on its own the album stands well, and looks fit enough to sprint off and give a good account of itself.

­ Germaine Smith