Precision Productions released the much anticipated Paradise Riddim that so many people were salivating over. There were wows and posts stating that Kerwin Dubois is boss on the riddim and a few postings regarding Machel Montano's song - they liked it. Then there was nothing else! Hold on now are the rest of the artists on the riddim chopped liver or is it that they did not live up to what many expected?
I have already posted the songs on this blog and will include a mix of all the songs at the end of this post. Keep in mind that I am a fan of Precision Productions but I have to be honest with my take on the songs. This riddim feels too relaxed for feting, too relaxed for Carnival - someone needs to explain the concept of this Riddim and the Carnival vibe expected from this production. I listened to the songs this afternoon and made these notes that I wish to share with you now.
Alternative Quartet - I Am Paradise
This is the heart and soul of the Paradise Riddim. These musicians are excellent and, just like they did on the Antilles Riddim, they have complimented the work done by Andre Donawa and Kasey Phillips. Listening to the instrumental version really puts you in a very relaxed place but I don't think that augers well for/in a fete situation.
Nadia Batson - FireMan
I immediately liked this song when I heard it. Nadia Batson can sing and she sounds really good on this riddim. She is a fiery woman and needs someone to wet her down - they can't get you to cool down on this Riddim Nadia, you are sizzling on this track.
Farmer Nappy - Drunk
Farmer Nappy is one of my favorite singers and he can deliver - you can't fault his singing performance on this track. However, this song has nothing lyrically to offer unless you are all about feting and having fun. Then again that is what feting and Carnival is all about. However, I have to ask a simple question, what happens to this song after the Carnival is over? It is a Carnival song - just that and will not have any longevity after the carnival is over.
Kerwin Dubois - Wettin
Kerwin's song and singing style for his song is very relaxed and soothing. Wettin after wettin, fettin after fettin will surely be on the lips of everyone. Now even though this song is more of a groove it surely has a nice feel to it. Granted it is a bit laid back for a fete song... it works and Kerwin surely made it work.... this is the best song on the Riddim. The best lyrics and excellent delivery of the story line. Kerwin wins this round outright!
Drinkin' Rum - Machel Montano
Damn, Machel is way to talented to be singing love songs about rum. He had one for Carnival 2012 and is following up with 'Drinkin' Rum? Come on now. Now regarding his singing performance - well done but Machel is too damn talented to be singing these types of songs.
Push Back - Teddyson John
This song is a big disappointment! There isn't anything special about the song. Push back, wine up on meh, show me yuh know what yuh doing... is there something about this song that should excite me? Boring!
You're Not Alone - Beverl S.
The is nothing special about her song. If this was not the Paradise Riddim no one would pay attention to this song. She gets a pass because the song is on the Paradise Riddim. This song does nothing for me.