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 Committed On Committed, Jamaica’s Wayne Stoddart calls on the noted Dean Fraser to co-deliver his sound on this Gospel reggae release. The result, a combo of Stoddart’s fine vocals and musical arrangements with Fraser’s expert guidance in the roots island vibe, is spectacular. Stoddart has deep musical roots in his community, having been on the scene for several years, and this stands him in good stead as he not only embraces a variety of related musical approaches, but calls on musical colleagues to help him to do so.  Songs such as the rootsy “Bountiful Love” and more brazen “Final Day” emplify the solid and refined studio sound that Stoddart and Fraser serve up. Alexander Martin-Blanken adds keyboard organ to the mix in this heady concoction of richly appropriate live instrumentation as Stoddart shines with strong lead vocals.On the title track, Stoddart gives the nod to Forgiven for subtle supporting vocals as he rises to the fore with memorable lead vocals backed by a rock-steady rhythm and Fraser’s own saxophone. Fraser also drops in on “He’s Everything To Me”, Stoddart’s island take on the popular Ralph Carmichael hymn. Veering to rhythm ‘n praise, “Spending Time With God” brings in guest Chevelle Franklyn on vocals, as Stoddart takes a break with mere background talking on this self-produced and self-written number. Franklyn also appears with Stoddart with rousing reggae-beats and guitar infestation (courtesy Dalton Brownie) on “Spirit of the Lord”. Other detours from the predominant roots sound that is the foundation of this project include several reflective numbers that combine musical elements pulled from traditional Gospel and worship and praise genres. “Paradise” and “Homesick” fall into this camp. Committed is a strong project from within the ranks of one of Jamaica’s rising vocalists. Platinum Gospel — reviewed by Stan North —
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