As the World Turns

Plenty has happened to the world in the 15 years since Black Uhuru last released a studio album – much of it rather gloomy and not worth talking about. But it is at least a minor consolation to know that despite it all, reggae has retained its potential for bringing sunshine to a cloudy sky.

Despite overall inconsistencies, there are moments in As the World Turns which achieve just this: the uplifting ‘Jah Guide’ being one of them, particularly in the appearance of Bugle (one of dancehall's more positive and life-affirming ambassadors). ‘Betrayal’, notwithstanding its title, is pure and simple good vibes, and will have you singing along by the second chorus.

The album tips its hat to various styles of reggae's extended family, and even the 1970s punk/reggae crossover gets a nod, in a take on The Clash's version of Junior Marvin's ‘Police and Thieves’, bringing the Jamaica-to-UK trails of influence full circle. The conscious but never didactic messages of Black Uhuru's 80s heyday remain well intact too. Founder and frontman Duckie Simpson plays the elder statesman with plenty to say, dishing out his wisdom, tut-tutting over the state of the world and taking solace in its pleasures.