For the best part of fifty years Alton ‘Soul’ Ellis has been singing songs of love. From his first ever hit ‘Muriel’ Alton has stood the test of time, gaining massive popular support, then somewhat fading from the limelight for many years, but still recording quality music.

‘Many Moods’ has been reissued by the lovely folks at Mackasound and includes a host of bonus tracks. Alton’s distinctive voice has an urgency and passion, which can express both joy and pain in a single word. ‘Many Moods’ captures and delivers his range of vocal skills perfectly. Mixing a fine choice of lovers and roots cuts; the album doesn’t fail to deliver at any stage.

From the opening track ‘Black on Black’, a song of Africa and cultural awareness, you know you’re in for treat. An excellent array of music follows; ‘Black My Experience’ is a downbeat, heavy tune, with finds Alton again praising his culture, an exceptional tune. ‘Rise and Fall’ is a heavy rockers style cut, ‘No Sunshine’ is a beautiful song, upbeat and warming, which gives thanks for the music we love. There are so many exceptional tunes on this release, each played, sung and produced to perfection, many featuring the magnificent backing vocals of The Heptones.

For me, being a roots fan, tracks such as the reality tune ‘Children Are Crying’, with its unmistakable Lee Perry production sound, and ‘The Humble Will Stumble’ are true gems and make this release shine. But that’s not to say you Lovers fan should be put off. Tunes like ‘Mr. Skabrina’, ‘It’s Hard to be a Lover’ and ‘Inside My Soul’ will soon have you in that loving mood.

The album rounds off with two cuts of the tune ‘Stronger’, a heavy roots anthem, giving praise to Jah, a magnificent end to a glorious reggae album.

Review By 'Jumpup'

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