Freddie McGregor - Comin' in Tough

Comin' in Tough, from reggae legend Freddie Mcgregor, doesn't break any new ground for the much-loved singer, but does clearly demonstrate why he's been such a consistent seller for almost four decades. The album's two lead tracks are also its two hit singles so far: the first, "Lock It Down," is an irresistibly catchy call to consciousness and "positivity"; the second is an equally hooky rewrite of Coxsone Dodd's classic "Bangarang" rhythm. The rest of the album is uneven, but generally quite good: for every disappointment (a completely unnecessary rewrite of The Wailers' rocksteady classic "Love and Affection," a meandering and lackluster original titled "Set the Program") there are at least two or three gems (like the brilliant "Pick Yourself Up," featuring Morgan Heritage). Read More