The Most High (EU)

Daddy Rings made his name on the German reggae scene, as a songwriter for and stage partner to the local hitmaker Gentleman. His second solo album is a sharp and intelligent combination of elements -- an old-school rootsiness runs through the whole program, but there are also many funky grooves on the album and a digital sheen overlays everything. What makes The Most High work so well is the combination of Daddy Rings' gorgeous voice and his ability (with the help of several A-list producers) to balance modern and traditional sounds so effectively. Notice, for example, how beautifully "Hard Road" blends modern funk, nyahbinghi drumming, and a heartfelt sufferer's lyric. Note also the hip-hop elements that are so tastefully incorporated into "Check Dis," and the rich, dark, funky rhythm that underlies "Yahe." Elsewhere he explores his horticultural interests on the completely unsubtle "Weed Song," uplifts the massive on "Be Not Dismayed," and joins up with his old spar Gentleman for the excellent combination track "The Future." The album ends on a fun note, with a highly enjoyable update of Desmond Dekker's "007 (Shanty Town)" rhythm. Though it's maybe just a bit too long, The Most High is one of the most impressive modern reggae albums of 2007. ~ Rick Anderson