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Review: Soul II Soul’s Simon Law looks to the sky on debut solo album

Released on June 23 on Dome Records, Look to the Sky sees Simon Law, now based in Toronto, reuniting with Soul II Soul’s Caron Wheeler, on lead single “Morning Love” – as well as with Soul II Soul main man Jazzie B on the title track.

Lain Gray, Nadine Sutherland (who was discovered by Bob Marley and signed to his Tuff Gong label at gthe age of 11), Chante Moore, Jennifer Schaffer and reggae star Maxi Priest also lend their considerable talents.

Gray, originally a member of UK vocal group Nu Colours, was Law’s main collaborator on the project, singing lead vocals on “Rocket Ship”, “Fire on Fire” and a number of other tracks. The album was mixed by Sting’s longtime sound engineer Donal Hodgson and mastered at London’s Abbey Road studios.

Kicking things off is the sensational title track, an infectious slice of modern reggae, which boasts that rhythmic vibe that Law has become known for. Along with a lilting flute, Wheeler’s voice, which helped take “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)” to the top of the charts back in 1989, ensures “Morning Love” is a truly gorgeous piece.

“Sunshine Girl,” featuring Maxi Priest and Lain Gray, deserves to be a summertime hit, with its chilled out groove and waves-lapping-against-the-shore noises, while “Love Comes Back to You” gives Nadine Sutherland the chance to shine.

Further highlights include “When You Love Someone” (also sung by Maxi Priest), the outstanding “Heart of the Beast,” featuring Jennifer Schaffer and the innovative “Heart of God.”

Overall, despite a few songs that could best be described as “filler,” there is much to enjoy on these 16 tracks. Law has successfully moved out of the shadows – and his long association with Soul II Soul – to craft together a fine debut solo album. Let’s hope there’s more to come.

Look to the Sky is available now.

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