Along with Macka B and Pato Banton, Tippa Irie is one of the most internationally recognizable British dancehall artists. Sign of the Times provides ample evidence why. Easily superior to his previous I Miss, this album proves to be an engaging journey buoyed by Irie’s energetic throwback delivery and a rootsy, conscious dancehall vibe, which combine for a sound somewhat reminiscent of Junior Kelly. The first half is particularly strong, headed by "War," "Chantdown Babylon," "Harder Ting," and "Left the Tippa," and the latter part is highlighted by the funky "Most I" and a wonderful remix of "Sensi" from I Miss that arguably outshines the original. Though popular, Tippa Irie displays a sound here that is not jumpin' (unlike, say, Pato Banton) and is in fact rather uncompromising, ensuring an appeal amongst reggae hardliners across the globe.






 by Quatty, ReggaeTrain.com
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