Album Review: Kabaka Pyramid showcases star power while encouraging a balanced life in “The Kalling”
Photo courtesy of Ghetto Youth International / Bebble Rock Music.
“The Kalling” is Kabaka Pyramid’s vibing new album, which was produced by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and cements Pyramid as one of reggae’s new stars. Pyramid finds his artistic groove in “The Kalling” and his vocals are so on point!
Take the album’s opening track “Mystik Man” as a perfect example. Kabaka Pyramid flows over a fresh new take on Peter Tosh’s classic. Pyramid comes out swinging and his vocals are some of the most passionately delivered this year.
The teamwork of Pyramid and Marley is showcased throughout “The Kalling” and their song together titled “Red Gold and Green” is absolutely a standout. The riddim is so fire and Pyramid and Marley bring the energy we’ve been craving. This pump up song is so good that I hope the artists consider making a collaboration album!
“Grateful” featuring Jemere Morgan has an irie riddim. The beat has a hip hop feel with reggae influence. When the verse hits the song slows down and Pyramid speaks about giving thanks to Jamaica. Morgan’s vocals on the hook are very strong and tie the song together.
Speaking of a great hook, Nathalia shows off her powerful voice in “Stand Up”. Pyramid stands up for freedom and speaks about the importance of staying true to one’s values.
The album’s title track, “The Kalling” features heavy hitters including Stephen Marley, Protoje, and Jesse Royal. Marley lays down a nearly perfect hook over the riddim and its inspiring to hear each of the reggae superstars on the verses reflecting on living in the moment.
Buju Banton and Pyramid come together in “Faded Away” a song spotlighting how chasing riches is not a righteous path. The combination of Banton and Pyramid vocally is powerful and uplifting.
Pyramid reminds us to not prioritize instant gratification in “Addiction”. His word play and lyrics in this song are so unique proving he’s one of the best lyricists in reggae today.
Answele brings smooth vibes in “Life Is Everything” and Kabaka Pyramid remind us to not take life for granted.
The continued rise of Kabaka Pyramid is clear as the Jamaican artist brought his A game on “The Kalling”. This is one of my favorite reggae albums of 2022, and I cannot wait to follow along as Pyramid continues to grow his fanbase around the world.
By CB.
