While not quite as strong as his debut album, So Many Things,
Universal Struggle makes for a solid sophomore effort from reggae DJ
Anthony B. Again, Rastafarian themes dominate, as the roots rhythms provided by
Richard Bell serve as the perfect backdrop for intense spiritual reflection. On "Storm Winds"
Anthony B declares, "I choose my destiny," a sentiment rooted in his belief that "every man won make it" in this "Universal Struggle." With the brunt of "damage already done," the conscious bobo advises all to "Seek Jah First."
Anthony B's guiding stance as an activist had a profound effect on the relatively peaceful Jamaican elections of 1997 in the form of "Nah Vote Again," while a duet with
Luciano called "Zinc Fence Jungle" puts a positive spin on the harsh realities of ghetto life. ~ Robert Gabriel