Album Review: “Downtown Swing” is Gonzo’s brilliant new album shining a light on his one of a kind voice
Photo courtesy of Gonzo. Photo credit: Alicia Hauff.
I was first attracted and drawn to reggae music when I listened to my Uncle Jim’s Bob Marley and Sublime CDs in the late ‘90s. Over the years I fell in love with the genre and it’s immense pool of global talent. Gonzo (Ryan Gonzo) is a great example of the phenomenal talent in today’s reggae community. His contribution to the genre is huge - from his time in Fortunate Youth, years as one of Tribal Seeds’ core members, and his dedication to consistently releasing amazing solo work. Gonzo’s new album, “Downtown Swing” shines a light on his one of a kind voice and ability to write simple yet beautiful reggae love songs.
The album starts with the title track “Downtown Swing”, a lively song with a grooving reggae riddim and powerful horn section. Gonzo carries the tune with his singing and it sets the tone for good vibes throughout the album, which was released by Roots Musician Records.
Gonzo collaborates with Arise Roots’ Karim Israel in the laid back track, “Crucial”. The musicianship in the song is impressive. We love the song’s feel.
Speaking of a feel for harmonizing over a reggae track, Gonzo’s collaboration with EarthKry in “Do You Feel Me” is poetic. This is exactly the type of reggae love song we were mentioning that Gonzo brilliantly brings to life. You will also hear a taste of Gonzo’s jamming guitar on this track.
What’s amazing about reggae is how the genre blends with so many other genres. When you listen to Collie Buddz or Bobby Hustle you might hear more of a hip hop influence and when I listen to Gonzo I hear a reggae rock, R&B and pop music blend. It’s so legit!
“I’ll Be There” showcases Gonzo’s singing but also his word play and his special ability to transition from a songs hook to verse. Once again the horns on this song and album are on point.
I love the simple yet powerful guitar in “I Keep Falling” and the cool dub aspects of the song. Gonzo destroys his vocals yet again.
“Downtown Swing” is a fantastic album and another impressive addition to Gonzo’s growing music catalog. You’ll enjoy listening to the album as you start the day, during afternoon chill time, or on your way downtown to swing the night away!
By CB.
