Since the late 1980s, gospel artists in Jamaica have gone beyond traditional means to spread God’s message. Cario Young is one of the young turks spreading the Word by recording songs to dancehall, reggae and pop beats.
Those sounds can be heard on ‘New Day’, his first album which was released on June 19. He co-produced the 14-song set with Canute Ellis.
“I believe that my music is different. My approach to gospel music is not traditional and may even be silently frowned upon. But I believe God is just using me in a different way to make people aware of who He is and what He stands for,” said Young.
With Ellis’ guidance, Young revels on ‘Easy’, a roots-reggae track. It is one of five songs from ‘New Day’ released prior to June 19.
‘One Way’ (a collaboration with DJ Nicholas), ‘Gravy’ and ‘Regardless’ are other songs from an eclectic collection. For the Toronto, Canada-based Young, beats are secondary to the message.
“Creating this album was more about a reflection of truth. Truth in who I am as an individual and as an artist. Truth in what the message requires. Truth in the declaration and defense of my faith and truth in the revelation of God’s promises to those who choose to love him,” he reasoned.
Jamaican gospel acts have shed the conventional approach since the 1980s when The Grace Thrillers recorded hit songs to reggae melodies. A decade later, Papa San and Lieutenant Stitchie brought a dancehall flavor, followed by current stars like Kevin Downswell and DJ Nicholas, who recorded their songs to reggae and dancehall rhythms.
WRITTEN BY HOWARD CAMPBELL