Rocky Dawuni Channels Positive Vibes Through Soulful Reggae Sound with ‘Beats of Zion’ (ALBUM REVIEW)

With his last album Branches of the Same Tree, Rocky Dawuni earned a Grammy nomination for best reggae album. It’s too early to say if he will earn another nomination for his new album Beats of Zion, although it wouldn’t be surprising. This is an album filled with bright melodies, tight rhythms, and lyrics that are both positive and thought-provoking.

You could call this a reggae album, and you wouldn’t be wrong. Reggae is probably the biggest component in Dawuni’s sound. You can hear it particularly in the rhythms of the songs. It is also apparent in songs like “Wickedest Sound.” There is a horn part throughout the song that would fit easily on a Trojan Records compilation. Likewise Stonebwoy’s vocals toward the end of the song are reminiscent of classic reggae. However, there is much more to this album than just reggae.

Dawuni also incorporates African sounds into his music. “Kyenkyen Bi Adi Mawu” is one really good example. With the horns and the guitar tone and the horns, it feels a lot like a 70s highlife song. You may not understand any of the lyrics, but the rhythm and the melody will get you moving no matter where you are.

The greatest thing about this album is that Dawuni shows the ability to write songs that make the listener feel good. “Freedom Train” is one good example. This is a cumbia tune featuring Alika on vocals. Like a lot of reggae songs, this song has a deeper message, but it’s so catchy that you don’t necessarily notice it unless you listen to it a couple times. Another example is “Let’s Go.” The melody is bright and bouncy with a bass line that is sure to get you moving. Then you hear lyrics like, “Let’s go riding on the path that leads to dreams,” and you can’t get the smile off your face no matter how hard you try.
While a lot of the album is upbeat, Dawuni brings the tempo down for “Turn It Up.” The melody and bass line both sound heavily influenced by Isaac Hayes. This is a slow jam that sounds like a 70s AM hit.

From soul to reggae to Latin influences, Dawuni shows some range on this album. No matter the style, his music is enjoyable – in part because it is so positive.

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