Many Moods of Moses
Many Moods of Mosesis one of the most spot-on titles in recent memory, as dancehall master Moses "Beenie Man" Davis displays a try-anything spirit very much in keeping with the reggae tradition. Beginning with a brief Ladysmith Black Mambazo-style introduction praising the album, Beenie Man quickly moves on to a chorus of, "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" before unleashing the full force of his delivery on the current crossover hit, "Who Am I." There's also a duet with Lady Saw on, "So Hot," a remembrance of Steven Biko on, "Steve Biko," and even a straightforward country song, "Ain't Gonna Figure It Yet," cut in Nashville. One of the most assured, thrilling discs in any genre this year.--Rickey Wright