Soulful Expressions and Deep Reflections: Mortimer shares From Within showing Vulnerability and Strength
Luka reviews From Within, Mortimer’s debut full length album, and possibly the Album of the Year?
Mortimer’s debut album, From Within, is an intimate display and introduction to the essence of Mortimer.
He unapologetically shares his deep musings, using his music to express his personal philosophy on life and how to be.
"From Within" offers insight into Mortimer not only as an artist showcasing his diversity and talent but also as a compassionate human, aware of the issues we face as individual beings and as a collective entity.
Unmistakably rooted in reggae, "From Within" emits a diverse sound that masterful producer Winta James has woven throughout the album's soundscape. James brings a clean, well-polished sound that stays true to the reggae genre while incorporating modern flair.
Each song on "From Within" presents a different chapter of Mortimer’s personal journey, exploring love, faith, struggle, and redemption. This album reveals Mortimer’s dynamic ability to combine his vulnerability with his strength, making it a moving thought-provoking work.
The opening two tracks of “From Within” feature outstanding collaborations with the iconic Damian Marley, the luminary Kabaka Pyramid, and the angelic voiced Lila Iké. Each artist brings their own distinct sound, enriching the album with depth, uniqueness and a dynamic range of vibes.
“In My Time”, the opening track, builds up a brooding steady riddim that evokes the spirit of Dub legend Jah Shaka’s “King’s Music”, combined with Mortimer’s ballad of insightful passionate poetic prose, exploring injustice and discrimination. “Being black has been a crime, to the people with no love inside, some could never tell you why, they hate you like a poison, they shoot us in the street, no apology, nuff inequality fi monopoly.” Mortimer’s compassionate delivery of his thoughtful lyrics strike a chord. Followed by the legendary Marley with his distinctly impactful voice, warning us of the dangers of media, technology affecting how we think and understand the world. Marley’s delivery flows majestically with the riddim of the track.
Photo courtesy of Easy Star Records.
Mortimer, Kabaka Pyramid and Lila Iké combine to create a poignant track with a deeply heartfelt message. “Bruises” confronts the scars, both physical and emotional, left by historical and systemic oppression that still continues.
The chorus is a raw acknowledgment of suffering endured, Mortimer sings, "I've got the bruises to prove," which sets the tone of the song, a rebellious narrative of resilience in the face of exploitation, abuse, and inequality. Kabaka Pyramid's versus poetically delve into the generational trauma experienced, drawing attention to how historical injustices, such as slavery and colonialism, have left lasting marks on both the body and his very being.
"It's always the Black that pay the penalties, scars on my back, they bear the memories" highlighting the pain that has continued to pass down through generations and the ongoing struggle against systemic racism.
Lila Iké’s harmonic contribution is reflective, exploring the psychological effects of oppression and the difficult process of healing. She emphasises that slavery, its aftershocks still echoe and impact others to this day, compellingly singing, "Slavery isn't something you can justify."
"Not A Day Goes By" explores Mortimer’s resilience through mental health struggles, while "Rather Be" calls for peace and love over conflict. The dubby bassline of "My Child" complements a loving message to his children. With thoughtfully wise prose “Don't you be afraid of this world, my child it might not pass like rainy days, even if you look at it differently.” The acoustic "Whole Heap" expresses gratitude and perseverance.
Love and loss are explored in "Balcony Swing," capturing the joy of new love, and "Slowly," with its soulful R&B vibe. "New Roads" reflect Mortimer’s forgiveness and personal growth, while "Where Would I Be" offers insight into Moritmer’s faith and gratitude to Jah for guidance. Together, these tracks form a rich tapestry of Mortimer's inner journey.
"From Within" is a personal and introspective album, where Mortimer blends vulnerability and strength. Memorable collaborations with Damian Marley, Kabaka Pyramid, and Lila Iké adding depth, combined with Winta James' production, enhances its reggae roots with modern flair. Mortimer explores themes of injustice, love, faith, and growth, the album is both emotionally resonant and musically dynamic and a must listen.
By Luka H.
