EYES TO SEE - Album Review
A Majesty Media album review
By Sista Irie
October 1, 2024
EYES TO SEE by TAJ WEEKES ft ZION ALBERT
“In a world of confusion and complexity, Taj Weekes shares the key to happiness through his personal messaging of love. The various themes of the album show how love impacts many aspects of our lives, as well as the road to world peace. “Eyes To See” reflects an inner vision of consciousness while acknowledging the challenging work that still needs to be done.” ~ SISTA IRIE
“Eyes To See” is an exceptionally crafted work of art. The album represents a profound offering of guidance for humanity to consume, and includes the skillful talents of a well synced team. Enticing vocals by Taj and Zion Albert are embellished by the works of keyboardist/producer Sidney Mills (Steel Pulse) and guitarist/vocalist Shelton Garner Jr. (Easy Star All-Stars). This compelling collaboration produces a unique sound for Taj’s eighth album, while remaining true to his trademark of social commentary. Taj might easily be considered the Bob Dylan of reggae music. His lyrical weaponry is intoxicating, appeals to intellectual sensibilities and soulfully entertains both heart and mind. From that perspective, he is a shepherd guiding our consciousness to think deeply about the world we live in.
Two outstanding songs reflecting love of self and family include “I and I Experience” and “Cornerstone.” Appreciation for the diversity of the world we live in is key to the perpetuation of love for humanity. Each person has their own story, so let us come together in unity and grow global harmony. It starts at home. “We’ve got seeds of change to sow. So let love freely flow.” We must build our home with love as the cornerstone."Let kindness be your song.”
“Bang Bang Bang” describes the reality of gun violence. Shooting and killing have become first responses to conflict, large and small, impacting all ages in our society. Taj inspires us to re-think our reactions and to imagine a world without guns. “For every problem we reach for a trigger, but maybe, maybe its time to reconsider…” It surely is time.
“All Things Shall Pass” delves deeply into Rastafari insight and livity. In every heart, Jah lives. Jah will guide us through the mix of emotions and tribulations. Faith is a guiding light combating our fears knowing that Jah is a consistent force of spiritual support. Jah lives and endureth forever.
“Wildfire” is simplistic and profound. Taj sings of the power of love as a quiet revolution. ”Let’s make love as infectious as hate, and spread it like wildfire.” Our world can only become paradise if people focus on building love as the first response in our day to day consciousness.
Other songs included on the 11 track album are filled with astute observations. “Wider Range”, “Great Divide”, “Choked”, “No One” and “Gentrification”, reminds us to strive for a deeper understanding and go below the surface to sharpen our eyes to see, ears to hear and hearts to beat to the Nyabinghi roots of reggae music.
“Eyes To See” is a powerful collector’s piece. The album radiates perfection, lyrically, musically and with purposeful delivery. Taj Weekes and his amazingly talented partners deserve admiration and respect, especially by those who consume music as spiritual nourishment. His works are poetic, thought provoking and inspirational
Taj Weekes, Sidney Mills and Zion Albert in the studio as the story unfolds…
For lovers of conscious roots reggae music, “Eyes To See” by Taj Weekes featuring Zion Albert is definitely more than an album. It’s a collectors piece to be added to your treasured music library.
Congratulations to Jatta and Skank Records for an outstanding contribution to reggae music, that could not come at a better time.
“I find the poetic delivery of the potent and relevant lyrical content to be the most striking features of this album.” ~ LLOYD STANBURY