Anthony B.: Universal Struggle - 1997

At the same time as Sizzla's breakthrough - actually slightly earlier - came Anthony B. 

He was more rough-edged than Sizzla, more militant and blatantly political, such on his controversial early single, Fire Pon Rome, which combined a hard-hitting message that attacked both the Jamaican political establishment as well as the Holy Church of Rome with an insistent, drum-backed Rastafarian-style backing. He also had that typical chanter's voice - gruff, uncompromising but hiding an innate sadness. 

His most crucial album was this one, on which he tempered the fervour of his message somewhat by some truly pleasant backings, and on which the highlights were the summery, saxophone-enhanced  Storm Winds, the catchy Heavy Load and the equally addictive, pounding Universal Struggle. 

Gangstas Think Twice samples the melody from Phil Collins' Another Day In Paradise in some parts and Waan Back samples Gregory Isaacs' Night Nurse. 

As with Sizzla, Anthony B is still recording today and his messages are similar - anti gun, anti-violence, anti political corruption and a desire for social equality. I really like the music of both these artists. I can't say that I've listened to everything they've done, but everything I have put on, I have liked - a lot. 

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