Jamaica's music community has always been fascinated by American pop, rock, and soul hits, and covers of American songs have been a staple of the island's modern pop era from the very beginning, through ska, rocksteady, reggae, dancehall, and beyond. This set, the latest in VP's
Covers for Reggae Lovers series, collects new versions of U.S. hits by island veterans and newcomers alike, including Studio One pioneer
Winston Francis' reimagining of
OneRepublic's "Secrets,"
Freddie McGregor's (
McGregor is another venerable Studio One veteran) take on
Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" (backed by Soul 4 Soul), and
New Kingston's dancehall remodeling of
Johnny Cash's "I Walk the Line," among others. It's a fun set, full of pervasive rhythms and Jamaican sunshine. ~ Steve Leggett