Best known as a gangster deejay in the 1990s, Chuck Fenda adds to his resume, the title of -poor people-s defender.- His new album, Living Fire released by London-s Greensleeves Records, contains material that will appeal to hardcore dancehall enthusiasts as well as those who savour the one-drop traditional reggae flavour.
Leshorne Whitehead (Fenda-s real name) knows what works for him, and he stays within the boundaries. He does push a few buttons with the lead-off single, Gash Dem (which topped multiple charts last year). The previously released single Freedom Of Speech hits back at the critics and those whom Fenda claims played a role in the banning of Gash Dem.
Child Of The Universe, featuring Tanya Stephens is infectious and poignant, while Working It, featuring his former stablemate Richie Spice, merits a few spins for the track to really grow on the listener.
Included on the 15-track disc is an interview with AXES magazine publisher Heike Wollenweber, and three of Fenda-s recent videos, Freedom Of Speech, Gash Dem and Coming Over Tonight.
Producer Shane Brown injected most of his production talent into Living Fire. But the real story is that although the album is a challenging listen, it can only serve to expand Fenda-s growing fan base.
Source: Jamaica Observer
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