Misunderstood & unfairly reviewed
Dave K. | Rocky River, OH U.S.A. | 03/04/2007
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Yes, roots reggae enthusiasts have labeled this album as 'uncharacteristic,' 'unexpected,' etc. However, most people just don't get this album...It's NOT "The Right Time" masterpiece, but how could the trio possibly be expected to re-create one of reggae music's all-time top albums?!?!
Although it ventures away from classic reggae-style music, listeners are asked to approach it with an open mind. It is NOT a sell-out album and it is NOT a bad album; in fact, it actually grows on you with each repeated listening...the trick is to get people to give it a try!
For thier second album (released in '77), the Mighty Diamonds traveled to New Orleans and hooked up with producer Allen Toussaint in order to try their hands at a different musical genre, and they seemed most sincere in their attempt. The experiment - New Orleans Funk - was critically mauled at the time of the release. But, listeners should judge this album for what it is, and NOT for what it is not!
The Diamonds re-crafted a couple of their previously recorded songs ("Back Weh Mafia" and "Country Living") a la N.O. Soul. In addition, they tried their hands at cover songs, such as "Sneakin' Sally Through The Alley" and "Tracks Of My Tears." Overall, the album has, in places, a touch of 'reggae feel' to it, but it is decidedly 'un-reggae' compared to the Diamonds' other roots reggae '70's releases.
Throughout music history, other, bigger musical acts (Beatles, Miles Davis, Dylan, just to name a few...) were heavily criticized at the time for embarking on new (and uncharacteristic) musical territory, but it didn't stop those artists from putting out challenging/creative/ground-breaking records. The Mighty Diamonds are no different - they should be given the same musical freedom to roam because taking chances sometimes involves putting oneself 'out there' musically, but from experimentation comes growth.
On "Ice On Fire," the Mighty Diamonds have achieved musical growth...And, in doing so, they also made a catchy New Orleans Soul/Funk album! Judge it for yourself!!
*Other great Mighty Diamonds albums include: "The Right Time," Tell Me What's Wrong," "Planet Earth," "Planet Mars Dub," and "Stand Up To Your Judgement."
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Track Listings (12) - Disc #1