It has been a long time since we heard Macka B. After only four albums in 10 years, he returns with this "Word, Sound & Power", produced by Tony "Ruff Cutt" Phillips for Jet Star. Enough to put him firmly back in the saddle.
Let's be honest, Macka B has never been particularly prolific in the studio. Accompanied by Mad Professor, the veteran deejay alternated the good and the less good: uninspired riddims and an overly digital sound gave his albums a whiff of the unfinished. From a career begun in 1986 with "Signs of Time", what we mainly remember is his live album "Roots Ragga", recorded in 1992 on a world tour, which demonstrates the deejay's talent as a showman. The arrival of this new album therefore left us a little doubtful, even if Tony Phillips's name is a guarantee of sound quality. Fears quickly swept aside: Macka B is back on great form, with productions worthy of his talent.
Crafted and intelligent lyrics
"Don't underestimate the power of words," announces the deejay in the opening track. His lyrics, instantly recognisable, have not changed: a mix of didacticism and humour, they still hit the mark. His quality of writing has allowed him to claim the status of social and even political commentator. As for example on the serious Whe Dem Deh with Freddie McGregor (unfortunately too far in the background), which looks back at the lie of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction. "I remember those days," exclaims Macka B on the nostalgic Those Days. "I can't believe it was so little time ago, look how fast we went down the wrong path." Macka B fights everyday racism in Racism, and tackles the theme of ganja from the female angle with Ganja Ladies. Jamaican gives him the chance to demand recognition of patois as an official language in Jamaica. Always with crafted and intelligent lyrics, delivered with a unique toast. For their part, Step Up and Hail Up will get people dancing.
Let us also mention the hilarious end-of-album romp: Deep Bass Voice. Macka B as Barry White? The deejay proves he still has resources to surprise us. "Word Sound & Power" is a complete and cohesive album. Even if eighteen tracks inevitably hide a few weaknesses, embodied here by the repetitive Children Children with its limited melody, or Musical Liberation which, despite The Hunta's interesting voice, suffers from the same ills. Nothing serious. Let us rejoice: Macka B is back.
