Pressure Points marks a distinct step forward for John Brown’s Body’s signature sound. The band (that many have called the best American reggae act) has laid down twelve stunning tracks of sonically exploratory music; that fully define the idea of future roots (as their sound has been dubbed).
The band’s eight members, working with producer/engineer Alex Perialis (Ginuwine, Missy Elliot, Anthrax), crafted an album that successfully captures the euphoric energy of their live shows, sculpted and refined through the forward looking lens of studio creativity. The result is a harmonious blend of road-tested standouts (“Bread”, “Full Control”) anchoring tracks moving in new sonic directions (“Blazing Love”, “New Blood”). The legendary Meditations lend vocal support on “Not Enough.” The record’s lyrics are personal, political, and challenging, the music both accessible and experimental.
With Pressure Points, John Brown’s Body prove that they have progressed musically in every aspect, stepping into the arena once ruled by bands like Steel Pulse, The Clash, and Massive Attack. Yet, in the end,
JBB have managed to keep the songwriting sensibility and broad tonal palette for which they are known and loved.
