Fresh off his 2022 Best Reggae Album Grammy nomination for “Come Fly With Me, Sinatra Songbook,” Shaggy returns with a captivating EP titled “In The Mood.” The release is his 16th solo project and the first under his new 50-50 venture deal with VP Records. This time the seven-track EP takes Shaggy seamlessly into soca territory as he blends dancehall with fast past beats.
The colorful carnival goddess on the EP’s cover is enough to judge this book as every track is exactly what one expects from a spca-dancehall EP.
Why would Shaggy release soca project after conquering the world with pop, latin and dancehall? As Afrobeats take over of the US and dancehall settles into its dark trap hall era, the global music industry is looking for music that makes people dance. “In The Mood” is far from afrobeats but aims for that dancing standard as it pulls on Trinidadian artists, Kes, Bunji Garlin, and Patrice Roberts. Other Jamaican artists known for filling the dance floor like Konshens, Future Fambo, and Skinny Fabulous complete the set’s energetic features. Shaggy is the star of this show but the collaborations effortlessly complement his styles, resulting in a diverse and vibrant musical experience.
Releasing a soca album at the tail end of the carnival season is risky considering soca does not get much airplay all year round, but “Mood” featuring Kes, may become the exception as it fits the summer party scene.
The song and accompanying music video has the right amount of humor, lyricism and stadium style chants of “wooiiiooee” to get any crowd going. Shaggy’s ability to create an upbeat and energetic vibe sets the tone for the EP.
Another standout track is “Whine & Jumping,” featuring soca darling Patrice Roberts.
This track brings together Shaggy’s raspy vocals with Roberts’ captivating delivery, resulting in a high-energy anthem that demands movement on the dance-floor or waving outdoors in a stadium. The fusion of dancehall and soca elements create an irresistible sound that perfectly captures the essence of both genres and increase its world music appeal.
“In The Mood” keeps Mr. Boombastic in the music conversation as it is a commendable attempt at bridging the gap between the different Caribbean styles with vibrant and uplifting sounds.
“In The Mood” is released by Ranch Entertainment/VP Records.
