Higher Ground
Country-bwaiDwight "Bushman"  Duncanhad to hitchhike to Kingston to jump into the dancehall  scene and get his career started properly. But when he finally got  going--whoa!Higher Groundfollows two critically acclaimed  albums (including an "essential" recommendation from Reggae Rough Guide  authors Steve Barrow and Peter Dalton for his debut,Nyah Man Chant) and  reveals a continuing debt to classic crooners like Dennis Brown, Garnet  Silk, and Johnny Clarke. Bushman has been compared to fellow country  transplant Luciano, and indeed, his golden baritone and conscious  lyrics seem kindred in spirit to that new-rootsman. But don't confuse  the stylistic similarities with a lack of originality. Songs like "Your  Love," "On the Road," and "Love of the Heart" boast beautiful melodies,  inspired singing, and magnificent arrangements. King Jammy's spacious  riddims allow Bushman's voice to soar and float like his messages.Higher Groundis Bushman's most confident and accomplished set  to date, yet another gem in a career of jewels.--Jeff Chang