The Reggae World is buzzing loudly with positivity about Janine “Jah9” Cunningham and her debut album “New Name”, which was just released last week on February 26th, 2013.
Credited as the founder of a new genre of music called “Jazz on Dub”, Jah9 has emerged as a unique and solid artist displaying spectacular vocal skills, enchanting reggae riddims, and heart heavy beats, all wrapped in adept lyrical mastery that shines with social awareness and conscious wisdom.
Daughter of a Baptist minister and a social worker, Jah9 grew up in the town of Falmouth, Jamaica. Her move to Kingston in 1991 opened her eyes to the chaotic ways of the corporate world, leaving her no choice but to sacrifice her financial security and pursue her real passion, what she refers to as her “Word-Sound”.
As I listened to her album, the thought that kept occurring to me was “WOW!!!” The presentation and depth of her vocal range is very unique and blends perfect harmony with the dub style reggae music contained within. The title track “New Name” is a prime example of an epic Reggae Anthem that sent me soaring with love. Other standout tracks for me were “Intention”, “Taken”, “Avocado”, and “Legitimate” featuring Protoje.
It’s very exciting for me to listen to new music from crucial artists that exude real vibes of awareness and world unity. Thank you Jah9 for doing just that with your fresh album “New Name”, it’s bound to be legendary!!!
♥ BOOM ♥
Joe McLaren
