Prezident Brown – Hook, Line And Sinker

Brown’s first recording eventually came in 1986 for RG, a small Ocho Rios record shop. It also brought him together with Bobby “Digital” Dixon, then an engineer at King Jammy’s studio. Four decades later, the Prez has a substantial catalogue behind him, with albums such as Hurt Dem Belly, Big Bad And Talented, Original Blue Print, and To Jah Only (Praying For The World) helping establish his reputation as one of reggae’s enduring conscious voices.

His latest offering, Hook, Line And Sinker, contains twelve tracks produced by Devon Bradshaw for AXX Records and Brown himself for Towerman Productions. The material comes from different periods of his songwriting career, but there’s a clear thread running through it: Rastafari, social awareness, peace, and the belief that reggae should carry a message.

Recorded and mixed at AXX Studio in Port Antonio, Jamaica, the album has plenty going for it musically. Real musicians, solid arrangements, and a good variety of riddims give Brown room to work his familiar chanting style. And when the combination clicks, the results are well worth hearing.

One of the strongest cuts is Hail Rastafari Forevermore. Its roots riddim has a definite Burning Spear flavour, and Brown’s commanding delivery fits it beautifully. It’s the kind of tune that reminds you why his style has remained relevant for so long.

Another standout is Disarm The Weapon (M-16), which puts the classic M16 riddim to good use. The anti-gun message is direct, and the familiar riddim gives it extra weight. Let The Guns Kill No More approaches the same subject from a different angle. There’s something appealing about the contrast between its serious lyrics and cheerful, catchy musical backing. It works surprisingly well.

Not everything makes an immediate impression, though. The slow-moving I’m Calling needs several listens before its social commentary starts to sink in. Golden Rose, on the other hand, is an easy one to enjoy, with Brown’s unmistakable vocal delivery bringing warmth to the tune. Play This Song (Mr DJ) keeps things lighter, paying tribute to the music itself.

Things take an unexpected turn towards the end. Three horn-driven riddims bring touches of ska and Latin music into the mix, adding some unexpected flavours. While the change offers a bit of variety, it feels unnecessary and doesn’t quite fit the overall vibe. Thankfully, a next version of the title track brings things back on track, closing the album in a more straightforward reggae style.

At this stage of his career, Prezident Brown isn’t about to reinvent himself, and there’s no real need for him to do so. Hook, Line And Sinker has a few moments that take time to grow on you, but the stronger cuts, particularly Hail Rastafari Forevermore and Disarm The Weapon (M-16), show that the veteran chanter still knows how to deliver a meaningful tune over a solid riddim. Forty years after his recording debut, the Prez remains a voice worth checking out.