Customer Reviews

Pressure Points

5 star:		(18)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

Yeah, I'm really surprised people get so upset because JBB is evolving musically. Fact is they are not the same band they were on the first two albums--they are writing much more interesting songs, play tighter more interesting music, and are doing something unique as opposed to just being a plain old reggae band. I'm surprised to see anyone compare this to bad UB40, which is all about simplified cover versions of old hits...this is original music with an emphasis on original riddims, strong melodies, etc...think more massive attack, police, ben harper than UB40...it ain't straight up reggae, but some of the songs are fantastic reggae tracks, like "Not Enough" featuring the Meditations. The record is solid from top to bottom...

Over the years JBB has developed a unique and original sound. And with Pressure Points, their 5th studio album, we are seeing the pay off for their hard work. It is so difficult to find any music these days that offers true original material, especially in reggae. But JBB have found their own voice and it is on display throughout the album. Standout tracks are Picking Up, Not Enough (featuring haunting backing vocals by The Meditations) and Blazing Love, one of the best love songs I have heard in years. If you are interested in music that captures the soul, go no further.

Kevin Kinsella takes a fat step back on this album for the benefit of the entire group. Every musician in the band sounds great. The bass is on, the drums. The album is produced by the Easy Star All-Stars, that brought Dub Side of the Moon; maybe that has something to do with it. What is so amazing about Pressure Points is Elliot Martin. I swear to everyone, this guy is on par with Bob Marley, Jacob Miller, Junior Murvin, Horace Andy, etc. Never before have I heard any "modern" reggae that compares to anything from the rocksteady/dub era. One reviewer calls Martin's style dancehall. His style is unlike anything ever heard before.





This album by far surpasses anything that they've ever done, I promise.

Pressure Points represents the coming of age for one of the best bands in the biz. Seems like some old JBB fans may not be willing to go on the journey, but trust me, it is worth the trip. All the tracks on this album are solid but the gems are Blazing Love, Make It Easy and Pressure Points. This is a must have for anyone who loves music.

I just saw JBB at the Belly Up and was blown away. I had heard about them before but had never seen them live or bought a CD. I picked up Pressure Points along with Among Them at the show and have been listeing since. Original music, reggae or otherwise, is always refreshing, and original music this good is hard to find.

Absolutely stunning. In my top 10 albums of all time. Have listened to it solidly for last 2 months. Most uplifting reggae album I have ever heard. Just check out the songs Bread, New Blood and Picking Up for starters.

You have to admire the consistency and growth of this group. Then as you listen, you discover savvy songwriting skills and excellent musicianship. For a moment, lets forget that they chose the format of reggae to communicate to the masses. The lyrics mostly indicate righteous, positive messages with enlightenment being the prime motivator. This style of music is healing music. It comes from inside. What about past messengers. John Lennon (with Imagine) or Gandhi with the quote, "Be the change you want to see in the world." Using your success to spread truth and righteousness is a respectable thing to do in my book.

Now for the reggae devoted, there are too many critics at times. Use your own judgement, listen carefully, the world may change. They still have their artistic integrity in tact. Those of you that can't stand to watch an artist grow need to sit back, drink some tea and take a class in songwriting to see if you can do it.........

I have been going to JBB shows for years, and though their studio albums cannot capture the true vibes of the live shows, they are great in their own right. Pressure Points is no different, showing off the bands skills once again. Heart and Soul is a classic and tracks like Make it Easy and Blazing Love shows a new side to the band. These are deep songs, and it takes a while to take them in, but it is worth the work!

Don't know if anyone caught the latest issue of BEAT Magazine, the dancehall issue, but they called Pressure Points an incredible conotribution to the future of reggae. I would have to agree. Given JBB's sizeable fanbase and crossover appeal (opened for Dave Matthews, J5 and others), I think it is worth noting that they have maintained alot of their hardcore fans with this record and with thier constantly evolvong sound. I LOVE Make it Easy and Pressure Points on this disc, and also Not Enough. Great work boys, I just cant get enough!
Jerry

Man, JBB can only hope to be as prolific and successful as the UB's. Yes, UB40 has done alot of covers (Labor of Love projects etc) but they have done MANY MANY MORE great original reggae songs. I have seen BOTH Ub40 and JBB in concert. ANd while JBB was good, they pale in comparison to UB40's performance. Don't get me wrong, I love JBB but to cut down UB40 is just not right - they are, next to Bob Marley, the most recognized and successful reggae band ever. Check out their new album, WHO YOU FIGHTING FOR, released JUNE 2005.