Reviewed by Andy Cooper

Regular Cross Rhythms radio listeners will know that the infectious "Hands Up" track from this set has been getting airplay. Sherwin is one of the busiest and hardest working gospel/reggae/urban musicians in the Caribbean. This new set bursts with 19 songs composed, produced and performed by the man with some noted guests. Sherwin is in fact a bit like a Caribbean Usher, with a strong and confident vocal style, including a convincing falsetto. Or you could say Justin Timberlake with added rap and toasting! To this heady musical brew add some Bob Marley-type reggae grooves and you get more authentic sounds than the likes of Sean Paul can provide, and a more rootsy vibe than Tinchy Stryder will probably ever deliver. Meanwhile on the urban R&B side of things, Sherwin raps up a storm with "Fire Blazing" featuring Gauge, while "Stamp On That" demonstrates his rhyming agility and slamming poetry delivered with conviction and perfection. From a spiritual perspective, this collection is full of faith and hope while dealing with life's struggles, temptations and distractions. These songs will stir, challenge and encourage the listener: check out "Show Yourself Real", "Move On" and "Know Your Worth" respectively. Regarding the musical production, this is what can make or break an urban recording, and thankfully Sherwin knows what he is doing, using the latest techniques and technologies in all the right places to provide a slick and punchy sound without the need to disguise any possible lack of vocal ability. Here is a rare demonstration of how to effectively fuse together the more traditional local rhythms with the sounds and styles of global urban pop and soul while keeping the message in-your-face Gospel.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.