Alpha Blondy storms back with his best release since Apartheid Is Nazism. Nothing much has changed stylistically for Blondy, as he is still able to pound out throbbing, international reggae laced with sharp messages of peace, love, and universality. Perhaps in an attempt to avoid some of the experimental failures which plagued other albums, Yitzhak Rabin was recorded at the Tuff Gong studios in Kingston, Jamaica and accompanying vocals were provided by the I-Threes. "Saraka" is an immediate standout, complete with characteristically majestic horns, a feral flute hook, and, of course, Blondy and the I-Threes' mellifluous vocals. These same elements combine seamlessly throughout the entire album and leave great music in their wake. "Bakoroni" and "Les Imbeciles" are other great examples of Blondy at his best. Even the weak ballad "Les Armes de Therese" is saved by his gritty vocals. While Yitzhak Rabin can't be considered a step forward for Blondy, it is a graceful step back to what made him an international star.
© Matthew Hilburn /TiVo