Everton Blender - Rootsman Credential

The intriguingly named Everton Blender released "Rootsman Credential" in 1999. It’s a self produced LP which is somewhat unusual for a reggae artist, but he did make a rather good job of it. The riddims are mainly digitally produced but that said they are not as cold and robotic as some, and there is some nice instrumentation on top of them from multi-instrumentalist Daddy Marshall as well as guest appearances on a few tracks, from session stars like guitarist Earl "Chinna" Smith and legendary drummer Sly Dunbar. The LP starts of strong with "Ghetto People Song," which utilises the same, if slightly tweaked digital riddim as Tony Rebel's "If Jah", this is then followed by the catchy "Bingi Man a Come", which sees a more dancehall style from Everton, before back to silky smooth with “Slick Me Slick”. The LP also contains a good, if unimaginative, cover of the cracking John Holts "Danger in Your Eyes"
There is a very conscious reggae vibe throughout and I feel that even now, as this very melodic LP has reaches its 10th birthday, it has faired up well and still sounds good today especially as there is something of a revival in a more rootsy sound.