Freddie McGregor - Forever My Love (1995)

A sophisticated set, presumably self-produced (the album includes fulsome credits but omits production), encompassing a rich mix of themes and styles. Unfortunately, Forever My Love kicks off with a fabulous recut of the singer's roots classic "Rastaman Camp," and all else pales before it, and although it may seem prudent to start off strong, in this case it would have been wiser to save the best for last. So potent a reminder of Freddie McGregor's past glories inevitably makes much of the remainder seem lightweight, a reflection in the shift of musical tastes since those heavy, heavy days of old. Which is a pity, as the album is actually filled with strong songs and performances, along with a delicious banquet of musical backings. McGregor's relationship with the Browne family, who provide much of the instrumentation here, continues. "Magic in the Air" is a true family affair with the younger generation of McGregors and Brownes (ten in all) raising their sweet voices
behind the elder star and the dueting Yeshemabeth McGregor. Love indeed keeps them going on and on. The title track is equally sweet and soulful, while the heartfelt "I Thank You Lord" is even lighter and breezier. At the other end of the spectrum are dancehall-flavored numbers like the cry to end the violence of "African Warrior," the sufferer's "Pain and Misery" set to a sparse ragga rhythm, and the even more minimally backed "The Fight for Freedom." Dancehall beats vie with rootsier atmospheres on "Food Basket" and "Love Inna Dem Heart," the set's strongest cultural numbers, but the most original arrangement is found on the equally stellar "Home Sweet Home." An adaptation of the old spiritual "Swing Low Sweet Chariot," it's grounded by insistent digitized beats, but sent soaring heavenward on the incandescent harmonies. Add a few covers, including the slick but soulful "Sweet Child" and the funky "Marijuana," and a handful of potent remixes, and Forever simply sizzles.~Forever My Love Review by Jo-Ann Greene