by Rick Anderson
Dynasty is a shameless return to the classic Black Uhuru sound of the 1980s, complete with vintage '80s reggae rhythms provided by Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare, just like in the old days. By now the only remaining original member of the group is singer Derrick &Gong& Simpson (formerly known as Derrick &Ducky& Simpson); lead vocals are now handled by Michael Rose sound-alike &Andrew Bees& Beckford, while the female vocal parts come courtesy of Puma Jones sound-alike Pam Hall. All of this could have added up to a stale rehash of former glory, if it weren't for the fact that Beckford and Simpson are both in fine voice, the songwriting is as strong as ever, and Sly & Robbie can still crank out the crucial rhythms with all the strength and creativity of youth. Highlights on this fine return to form include the typically dread and unsparing &Psychopathic Drunkies& and &Dread to be Rasta,& as well as the stern &Proselyte,& which berates false Rastas everywhere. The band that years ago told you to quit smiling so much is now back with a vengeance. Highly recommended to all fans of modern roots reggae.