Review of Luciano's A NEW DAY

Luciano has been one of the few modern roots singers that has been consistantly strong with each major LP release. His latest on VP, A New Day, certainly doesn't break that streak.

Luciano is one of the most spiritual singers that I've ever heard -- "It's Me Again, Jah," "Messenger," and "Can't Stop Jah Works" were all great examples of this from his past albums. The standout spiritual track on A New Day kicks the album off, "No Night in Zion." Over minimalist production featuring fundi drums and simple harmonies, Luciano lays down the album's best vocals.

Production on Luciano's latest is handled by a number of able men: Sly and Robbie, J. McClymont, and General Lee and Gary Douglas, but the job of producer goes primarily to Dean Fraser. Dean Fraser's production surprised me... he seems to be producing more and more, and if the cuts on A New Day are any indication of his talents, I would say that's a good thing. He seems to be able to handle many different styles with equal ease. I guess that's shows how priceless experience is.

Other notable cuts include the mellow "Road of Life," "Nah Give Up" with its quick pace and wonderfully rolling drums, the noble "African Skies," and the excellent old-school style closer, "Journey."

A New Day is Luciano's most mature effort to date. For Luciano fans, it's a no brainer: you'll want A New Day in your collection. For those yet to be introduced to this talent, here's a good place to start.

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