Music Street Journal - Music News & Reviews

Third World Under the Magic Sun Review by Gary Hill Third World turns their attention to covering a lot of really classic songs. Their blend of reggae, soul and jazz works really well on these tunes. Additionally, they picked some great music to cover. There are a few originals in the mix, too. This is quite an entertaining disc. It’s arguably a great one as a “gateway drug” to reggae fever for those who don’t like reggae. This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2014 Volume 5 at lulu.com/strangesound.

Track by Track Review

Put a Little Love in Your Heart Reggae and soul mix on this familiar tune. It’s a fun number and a cool arrangement.

I Can't Fight This Feeling Here we get a reggae turned soul cover of the REO song. I have to say that this different treatment breathes some new life into a tired piece of music.

My Love I’ve always been a fan of this song. I like this rendition a lot, too.

I Go Crazy This only has a little reggae on it. There’s a bit too much of a 1980s vibe here for my taste. Still, the melody is strong and it holds up.

Have You Ever Seen the Rain Who could have imagined CCR done as reggae? Well, that’s what this is. It’s one of the better fits, surprisingly enough. I like it a lot.

Best of My Love Here’s another song I’ve always liked a lot. This version does a great job of changing it up while keeping all the magic.

Everything I Own They seem to have a knack for picking songs that have a special place in my heart. This version is quite a cool one, but it isn’t quite the winner that the original is.

Into the Night Another good cut, this one doesn’t quite stand as tall as some of the rest.

Inner City Blues This is good, but not a standout.

Walking in Rhythm Another that’s sort of average, this is soulful.

Try Jah Love (Re-Recorded) This has a lot of energy and soulful sound. The vocal performance on this is among the strongest of the set. The piece does suffer a bit from being too long.

Livication to Bunny Rugs Essentially a jam, this has a spoken vocal dedication.

96 Degrees (Re-Recorded) This is a more full on reggae treatment. It’s a good tune, too.

Now That We Found Love (Re-Recorded) I like this soulful jam.

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