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With an opening nod to Stevie Wonder, amidst a subtle tropical seascape, a guitar figure reminiscent of his previous band, a signature drum-loopsound propelling it forward, flavored by vintage Police spice, Mr. Anonymous makes an auspicious debut on the title track of this eclectic recording.
An ethereal vocal floats above a chuckling counterpoint of call and response toasting by Dr. Innocent and Cutty Ranks, setting a warm, good natured tone for the whole CD.
“Sexy” is exactly what it says it is. The seductive lead vocal of the persuasive Frankie Paul practically lights the fire and pours the Courvoisier, delivering a romantic smooth groove message. Track three is a bit of a change-up, with a darker triple-play dancehall attack from Bounty Killer, Danny English, and Turbulence, offering a harder dance beat on “Shylean.”
The disc returns to the “Good Vibe” with guest appearances from Michael Rose of Black Uhuru, and a favorite voice from summers past, Dave
Wakeling of English Beat and General Public. Mr. Anonymous continues his journey on the “Harmony Bus,” once again featuring an echoing vocal floating above a rhythmic guitar, in contrast with the deeply gruff, but winking good humor of Danny English. “Swing” brings together the singing of Barrington Levy and Frankie Paul in a ménage patois with Brando, who is featured next on the melancholy “Bring the Youth,” with its moody lead guitar, chimes, and haunting percussion.
“Atmosphere” is just that, an atmospheric showcase for Michael Rose, with a backdrop of insistent calliope-like keyboards, tapping gourds and bells. “Get Ready” is the first track where the mysterious Mr. Anonymous really takes the forefront and reveals the mastermind behind the mask, singing, playing acoustic and electric guitars, and keyboards. Jeep MacNichol, who has put together this truly enjoyable tour de force, is the beloved one-time drummer of the Samples, who has several previous solo efforts under his belt, but has possibly found his true calling here in the guise of Mr. Anonymous. Creating a platform for a wide variety of island artists, with support from DJ Psychonaut on the turntables, drum loops from DJ Swamp, occasional guests Sly and Robbie, and an array of others, Jeep has put together a memorable danceable soundtrack for an escape to the beach.
“Always” successfully runs away with the conclusion of the record followed by a “Shylean/Party Tonight Remix” that allows Bounty Killer to host a dub grind into a delicate acoustic reprise of “Swing,” that sends you out in another good vibe.
Bravo!
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