July 20–27, 2000

disc quicks|reggae

Capleton

More Fire

(VP Records)

Dubbed the Fireman for his fiery lyrics and blazing righteousness, Capleton returns with his fifth long player. He covers a myriad of topics — from Rastafarian way of life to the ill effects of bowing to modern-day Babylon — leaving the listener with plenty of mental nutrients. Capleton sets the tone for this near-classic release with the first cut, "Fire Chant," in which Fireman and his brethren ruminate on higher understanding and the spiritual purification of fire. Indeed, Capleton earns his tag. On "Who Dem?," he unleashes lyrics full of hell’s fury for all who slander the Ras believers. With piercing lyrics and breathless delivery, Capleton rewards the attentive listener. Keeping in stride, he preaches respect for women on "Good in Her Clothes," which was a hot megamix single. On the track he exhibits his lyrical duality, praising both the earthly and heavenly mother. Deep. Capleton even squeezes a few dancehall riddims onto the set. "Danger Zone" is certain to keep urban blocks hot this summer, but the drum- and bass-heavy "Final Assassin (On A Mission)" is certainly the album’s anthem. Mixing Rasta idealism with aggressive and growling lyrics, Fireman issues both a prophetic proclamation and a challenge to all DJs who "wan test" him. Although preachy and hard to decipher for non-roots heads, More Fire fits in with, say, Bob Marley’s Exodus. Scoop it up if you can handle the heat.

—Damon C. Williams