Natty Change The Rebelship Sessions Album Review
For fans of Natty and his smooth soulful style of pop-reggae Change is a welcome sound to eager ears. The laid back grooves layered with flowing melodies and relatable lyrics establish this EP as sure-fire chill-out music. Though at times I did find more to be desired from the albums lackluster production and minimal arrangement. The true beauty comes through in the raw spirit carried on the music’s positive message; something that shines bright throughout the album.
Starting off, the title track bounces along in classic dub-reggae style with Natty’s roughest singing on the album. In this case roughness is just what the track needs, the throaty vocals sit perfectly in the delayed synths, and hold stage along side horns in the chorus. The rest of the album holds to a more decidedly pop flavor. JJ(don’t go)†is a soulful Rap/R&B ballad about the uselessness of violence, and heartfelt worrying about a friend. Followed by the soft SS I love you, a more spacey production well suited for lyrics inspiring self-liberation and transcendental love. Closing the EP You Don’t know me brings us back to the everyday with moving and bright instrumentation and contemplations of the judgmental nature of humanity. The percussion heavy track pushes forward without ever being abrasive as horns pierce through the mix to accentuate the lyrics.
As far as Natty’s style of pop-reggae is concerned, this album is a shining testament to the UK artist’s ability to write roots deep music that is sure to make you feel good. On the other hand, if your looking for flawless production or revolutionary musicianship you’ll have to look elsewhere, this one was definitely designed for the fans: which I think they will surely appreciate.
