Album Review :
Sonny Sandoval - Sonny Dread
By Rob J in Reviews | No Comments
For a few years now, at least, there have been rumors and rumblings of a solo album on the way from Sonny Sandoval. For most who stay on top of what’s what in music, Sonny’s name doesn’t really need any further clarification. For the uninitiated however, allow me to formally introduce you.
Sonny Sandoval is arguably best known for his time spent fronting San Diego’s hard rock/nu metal outfit, P.O.D. You can also find him blowing up the vocal booth on one of the many tracks other bands have asked him to guest on over the years. He’s also a co-founder of the Whosoever’s ministry, which has also involved Ryan Ries, Brian “Head” Welch, and Lacey Sturm, among others. This past year, he’s also released his first book, “Son of Southtown” (which is a really great read), adding “author” to his list of accomplishments, and now, in just this past month, we finally have his debut solo release, a reggae album titled “Sonny Dread”.
From start to finish, this album reminds you over and over again just how skilled Sonny is on the mic. “Sleeping Lion”, which was the first peek of this release, kicks things off and has an especially catchy hook. Lyrically, the album covers a good bit of ground from the joyful to the positive to the faith infused and inspiring.
“Sonny Dread” serves the reggae genre beautifully and features guests Arise Roots, Marcos Curiel, Dondi, Q-Unique, Ray Riley, Louie Castle, and Gil, Migs, & Rog. The classic reggae sound is present throughout with the only exception being “Talk To God”, which has a bit more of a hip-hop feel to it and is easily one of my favorite tracks on the album.
It feels safe to say that Sonny’s first solo release has indeed been a successful foray into a much more concentrated focus on reggae. The rhythms, the bass, the occasional horns and keys all serve up that classic reggae sound and feel that just emanates that feel-good vibe. Now add to that the distinctive sound and style that Sonny brings to the mic and you’ve got one solid album sure to lift your spirits, delivering that feel-good vibe time and time again. “Sonny Dread” puts on perfect display the fact that Sonny Sandoval won’t be confined to any one particular style or genre, but succeeds and even thrives on versatility. Not only is this album sure to please fans of Sandoval’s other work, but it’s also sure to appeal to an even wider audience yet, leaving listeners new and old alike eager to see what else may lie ahead.
Streaming everywhere now! If you like what you hear, be sure to support the bands/artists by grabbing something at the merch link below!
