Barrington Levy
Poor Man Style
Album · Reggae · 1982 · Thompson Sound Jamaica
Dancehall singer Barrington Levy’s 1982 album Poor Man Style delivered a devastating slice of soulful, ghetto-inspired reggae, with laidback rhythms masking his subtle sense of urgency. Scientist’s production is bare-bones but highly effective, turning a clattering cowbell into a kind of warning sign on the pleading “Jah Help Us.” And against the echoing keys and dry snares of “Poor Man Style,” Levy’s poignant high register conveys all the burdens and tribulations of poverty.
Poor Man Style
Barrington Levy
Dancehall singer Barrington Levy’s 1982 album Poor Man Style delivered a devastating slice of soulful, ghetto-inspired reggae, with laidback rhythms masking his subtle sense of urgency. Scientist’s production is bare-bones but highly effective, turning a clattering cowbell into a kind of warning sign on the pleading “Jah Help Us.” And against the echoing keys and dry snares of “Poor Man Style,” Levy’s poignant high register conveys all the burdens and tribulations of poverty.
