WAILING SOULS
All Over The World
(Chaos/Columbia)

This originally ran in the St. Louis Post Dispatch in 1992.

Their debut release on Columbia Records shows this classic reggae vocal group in a different light. From the onset it's obvious the Wailing Souls are going for a broader audience, as they've injected funk, soul, and even rap into their roots reggae sound. Although it's a departure from their usual style, "All Over The World" is an excellent release.

Since their major-label signing, the Wailing Souls have changed from three members to two, consisting now of only singers Winston "Pipe" Matthews and Lloyd "Bread" MacDonald. Matthews has always sung the majority of lead vocals, so even with the group's change and different musical styles, his distinctive voice makes these 10 songs unmistakably that of the Wailing Souls.

The opening title track is pure funk-pop with no trace of reggae. This radical move works, though, as the song's a non-stop killer. From the wicked roots style of the next one, "Shark Attack," to the hardcore beat of "Get Real" and "Picky Picky Head" (and even the outstanding version of the Stones' "Sweet Black Angel"), these tunes show the Wailing Souls in top form vocally as well as lyrically. The musicianship is also extremely tight, with bassist "Flabba" Holt leading the way (and make sure you check out the small, but excellent, guest "toast," or rap, by the legendary U-Roy on "You Ain't Leaving").

"All Over The World" is one of the years best releases and though it may dishearten purists, it should gain the Wailing Souls legions of new fans. The different, more commercial sound will hopefully open the door to radio play and with a push from their record company, this classic group may finally get the recognition it rightfully deserves.






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