Black Attack

40 years since Mutabaruka’s first studio album, and 14 years since his last, this new release from the Jamaican dub poet is just as hard-hitting as ever. Known for his (sometimes controversial) socio-political commentary and a tendency to challenge mainstream thought, Muta’s declamatory vocals remain ever potent. Black Attack addresses subjects ranging from family life and gender equality, to colonialism and corruption within government politics. It is, in the artist’s own words, an ‘[attack on] all the things that are keeping Black people from progressing.’

Mutabaruka’s unwavering words are delivered with the theatrical emphasis they merit: as proclamations, sweeping in and bouncing out, or punctuating the succulent sounds of bass and drum that pulse through the album. Produced by UK-based dub master Mad Professor, the record is built on a deep bed of reggae riddims. At times these lean into a dark and moody minimalism, sending percussive hits echoing through otherworldly space. At other moments, tracks bounce along, with catchy backing vocals and playful horn lines offering an upbeat counterpoint to heavily laden lyrics. Rounded off with four instrumental dubs, this record is both socially and sonically profound, and a captivating listen on multiple levels.