CHRONIXX

I’m amazed that I haven’t written about a reggae artist till now since I’m a huge fan. So I find it fitting that Chronixx be my first review as Chronixx embodies the best of old school and hybrid styles of reggae. His pedigree is impeccable as his father is dancehall singer Chronicle. Actually his original name was Little Chronicle until it morphed into Chronixx.

My initial contact with Chronixx was his performance of “Here Comes Trouble” from his second E.P. (Dread & Terrible-2014) on Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight Show. The tune had me hooked and Chronixx’s charisma was self evident. I immediately downloaded this brilliant E.P.

Chronixx’s sense of Rasta pride plus his acute understanding how to manipulate different musical genres into the reggae mainstream places him in the forefront of the Dutty Bookman coined phrase of “Reggae Revival” which includes artists Protoje, Pentateuch, Kelissa and Morgan Heritage to name a few. His  excellent use of R&B, Hip Hop and Gospel updates beautifully Bob Marley’s and Peter Tosh’s fundamentals. Also his constant uplifting vibe on today’s social and political themes makes Chronixx a most relevant storyteller. Not to mention his vocals are smooth as glass.

After two well received E.P.s (Hooked On Chronixx-2011 and the aforementioned Dread and Terrible) Chronixx has released his first full length L.P, Chronology (Zincfence). On all sixteen tracks Chronixx intones the positive force of his music. The music is stylish and his message of strength, unity and love is powerfully delivered.

Chronology opens up with “Spanish Town Rockin” , a homage to his hometown. “Spanish Town Rockin” throws down a gauntlet as to the vibe of Chronology. Affirmative lyrics with music that’s familiar yet with a twist. You can feel the admiration Chronixx has for his roots, music and family.  The next song up is “Big Bad Sound” which features his father, Chronicle. A bouncy dancehall tune with a hypnotic beat.

All sixteen songs on Chronology are memorable but there are definitely standouts. “Skankin Sweet” brings in a R&B ska riff that will have everyone skanking in the streets. “Ghetto Paradise” a low-key jam with soft soothing  horns in the background. “Smile Jamaica”, one of the first singles off the release, is full of country pride and woman’s rights with a wonderful traditional reggae styling. “Smile Jamaica” also showcases Chronixx’s beautiful voice, You can almost feel the warm Jamaican breeze as he sings. ” I Can”  is an energetic crowd pleaser.

I have three favorites. “Likes” is an awesome EDM/dancehall hybrid that gives praises to reggae greats past and present. Chronixx sings with such love and devotion it oozes off the track. “Majesty” is an ambitious love song that brings back many romantic memories with its funky flavor. And “Legend” a folksy ditty with hints of gospel and a solid message of humility.

I could have written a snippet for every song on Chronology. Every song is masterfully different. By far one of the strongest reggae albums in quite a while. A must for every music lover, reggae fan or not. VIVA the “Reggae Revival”.

Chronology is Chronixx’s first album

Chronixx is currently on tour.

Next post———————-Lo Moon

 

 

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