Barrington Levy - Black Rose

Review by Sally Gomez

Black Rose, the 1983 album by Jamaican reggae artist Barrington Levy, is a timeless classic that showcases Levy's unique vocal style and lyrical prowess. Produced by Jah Life and Henry "Junjo" Lawes, the album features a mix of roots reggae, dancehall, and lovers rock, with Levy's distinctive voice soaring over the top of each track.

The album opens with the title track, "Black Rose," a haunting and powerful song that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Levy's voice is at its best on this track, and the lyrics are both poetic and politically charged. The album then moves into more upbeat tracks like "Shine Eye Girl" and "My Woman," which showcase Levy's versatility as a vocalist.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Under Mi Sensi," a classic dancehall tune that became a hit in Jamaica and abroad. The track features Levy's signature "sing-jay" style, with his melodic voice alternating with a more rhythmic, spoken-word delivery.

Other standout tracks on the album include "Sister Carol," a tribute to the female dancehall artist Sister Carol, and "She's Mine," a smooth lovers rock ballad that showcases Levy's romantic side.

Summary by Sally Gomez

Black Rose is a must-have album for any fan of reggae music. Levy's voice and lyrics are as powerful and relevant today as they were when the album was first released, and the production by Jah Life and Junjo Lawes is top-notch. Whether you're a longtime fan of Barrington Levy or just discovering his music for the first time, Black Rose is an essential addition to any reggae collection.