Bedouin Soundclash

Bedouin Soundclash, three reggae-lovin’ dudes from Kingston, ON, are still riding high on the success of their beautiful debut, Sounding a Mosaic. Fans from the start are starving for new material and after hit single "When The Night Feels My Song,” the term "Bedouin fan” now includes the majority of Canada. It seems the band aren’t too concerned about the "sell out” whispers, especially after their departure from reggae/ska powerhouse Stomp Records, and they have no reason to be. Musically, they have picked up right where their organic debut left off. A little poppier and undeniably commercial than their previous record, Street Gospels does however stick to the oceanic reggae they have become known for. Jay Malinowski’s distinctive vocals are on top of their game for album sparklers "Until We Burn In The Sun (The Kids Just Want a Love Song)” and "Hush,” which is an a cappella cut. Bringing Bad Brains’ Daryl Jenifer back on board to produce was a smart idea, judging by the previous success, yet it seems these cats are running out of steam. The first six or seven cuts are somewhat exhilarating but as the album progresses, the songs fall flat and become less exciting. It’s when they turn down the reggae soul vibe and turn up the indie rock that things start to sound burnt out. Towards the end, the Caribbean-enhanced "Jealousy and the Get Free” is a mess of emotions. The listener may not be able to tell if they are trying something new or just trying too hard.