Dennis Brown—whom Bob Marley dubbed “The Crown Prince Of Reggae”—had one of the greatest voices in the genre’s history. It was also a voice that—like Hank Williams’, Bob Dylan’s or Billie Holiday’s—transcended genre to become a signature of its owner’s singular style. The contributing artists on We Remember Dennis Brown thus wisely avoid any attempt at vocal mimicry, letting Brown’s lyrics and spirit carry the day.
The collection presents Brown’s fiery political material and his sweeter, lovers’-rock output on separate discs. The covers are respectful of the source material, the artists clearly energized by the project. Bushman’s slow-burn “Don’t Want To Be No General,” Marsha Ambrosius’ gorgeous “Have You Ever Been In Love?” and Jah Vinci’s “Money In My Pocket” are all high points, but no track is less than formidable, and several are outstanding. We Remember Dennis Brown is excellent on its own merits, and a useful intro for the Brown newcomer.
—Eric Waggoner
