Eddy Grant - Hearts & Diamonds

Facts ... I think it's a shame that America only gave Eddy one shot, when anyone who listens to his other music could tell you that he is a solid performer... With his new CD, "Hearts & Diamonds", his first in 7 or 8 years... Mr. Grant offers up his usual combination of funk/r&b/reggae/ska/folk that has peppered his previous releases.... He offers up some contemporary hip hop beats with "Ten Out Of Ten", "Lover To Lover" and "How Come I'm The Last To Know", the latter have a dance hall quality to it. Most of the 11 tracks make an enjoyable listen with the exception of "Don't Back Down" and "Belgrade" which seem rather bland. If there were to be a hit on this disc it would be "East Dry River (Ska)" with it's catchy melody and repetitive chorus. So overall, this is not Eddy Grant's worst offering, but it's not his best either, but I think he's just getting warmed up. Fans will like this... It's good to have Mr. Grant back after a long absence.