A time to rest

As a reggae artist, it takes a lot to fill the shoes carved and worn by even bigger artists, those fundamental pillars within an otherwise oversaturated genre of music. All of this and more is true for guitarist, singer and songwriter Stephen Marley. The Jamaican-American artist not only had to shine musically to pave his way as a successful performer, but also go above and beyond to surpass or at least match the footsteps of his father, Bob Marley. As any reggae fan may know, Bob Marley is an essential pioneer to a specific sound that popularized the entire genre. With that being said, Stephen Marley certainly faces an immense amount of pressure with each project he creates.

Old Soul lives up to its expectations as [Stephen] Marley’s latest release. With seven years in between this album and its predecessor, the anticipation has been real. Luckily, there is absolutely no hesitation in Marley’s continuous rollout of feel-good tracks, perfectly captured moments in time. Old Soul exudes wisdom, comfort and a carefree energy resonant within any member of the Marley family. The general demeanor of this project is light, like a lullaby. It captures the essence of deep relaxation after a fulfilling day. Marley is singing out to the people, with a strong emphasis on singing.

Each lyric is delivered in an almost predestined manner, words effortlessly cascading off a leathery, worn page. This concept is then emphasized through the timbre of Marley’s voice, years of experience packed into seconds of sound. “Don’t You Believe” opens the project up flawlessly with intertwining guitar, lead vocals and harmonious backups. The lead vocal hook in which Marley sings the song’s title is eerily catchy, yet pure beyond belief.

The rest of the album follows suit, with notable mentions including “Old Soul,” “These Foolish Things (Reminds Me Of You)” and “Standing In Love.” “Old Soul” really shines with its lyrical quality, in which Stephen Marley takes on a storytelling perspective rather than embracing mystique. As a self-titled track, “Old Soul” certainly does not disappoint. “These Foolish Things (Reminds Me Of You)” is wistful, like weathered blades of grass slowly waving in the wind. The horns are nostalgic and familiar, a renaissance of Saint Louis blues. The backup vocals polish the track off to its maximum extent, providing reflection on Marley’s presumed long lost lover. “Standing In Love” features California based reggae rock band Slightly Stoopid. Collaboration is prominent within this piece, especially when the lead vocals switch between creative forces. There could have been more dynamic ability on this track instrumentally, but the vocals do compensate for a lack of variety within the arrangement.

Overall, Old Soul is worth listening to. Lovers of reggae and carefree living have a lot to unpack throughout the album’s 14 tracks. Stephen Marley lived up to the hype on this project and once again has proved that he can fill his father’s shoes, not only as a musician but a human being too.