User:Fearencious/sandbox

Peace In a Time of War Strength To Survive is the eighth release from Virginia-based reggae band Soldiers Of Jah Army (SOJA), it comes 12 years after their self titled debut EP. Listening to the opening track is comfortable, it's all there, the same rhythms and progressions as before; there is no need to work to enjoy this album. Mentality starts the album with telling horns and a flowing chorus, then it's straight into the title track, making obvious the overall direction of the album. It's ultra clean and refined, particularly when you stack it up against the earlier releases, like Peace In A Time Of War. There is less echo on vocals and more caress. For some that will be great, others will prefer the grittier earlier stuff. This is a result of the collaboration with producer John Alagia (Dave Matthews, John Mayer). The new album has similarities with Michael Franti with the positive come-together vibe and the tight production. The message is what you might expect, but refreshingly honest and wholesome in its delivery. "Roles were reversed and it was different and we were the ones with nothing to eat/We were the ones with blood in our street." The openness of the band's message tracks back, and is perhaps behind the broad appeal to the growing 'army' of SOJA listeners. Strength To Survive is another step in that direction. There are enough stand-out tracks to keep you coming back: Mentality, Everything Changes, It's Not Too Late, Not Done Yet. At the forefront of their scene, SOJA appear to have enough mastery and versatility to make some great tunes that stand up to be heard." By Sean Melrose-Aukema 

Track listing

 * 1) "Revolution" – 4:58.
 * 2) "Reality" – 5:02.
 * 3) "Non-Partial, Non Political" – 4:48.
 * 4) "Look Within" – 4:26.
 * 5) "Rasta Courage" – 4:45.
 * 6) "Peace In a Time of War" – 3:20.
 * 7) "Creepin In" – 3:29.
 * 8) "Brothers & Sisters" – 4:12.
 * 9) "True Love" – 4:16.
 * 10) "Jah Atmosphere" – 4:42.
 * 11) "Mother Earth" – 3:29.
 * 12) "Forgive, Don't Forget" – 5:42.
 * 13) "Did You Ever" – 3:59
 * 14) "Time Come Due" – 3:53
 * 15) "The End" (Bonus Track) - 6:16.

Personnel

 * Eddie Drennon – violin
 * Michael McCormick – piano
 * Patrick O'Shea – organ, keyboards
 * Christopher Wight – keyboards
 * Julius Wirth – viola

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