Dub Pistols - Crazy Diamonds
After twenty years of mixing up dub, ska, reggae, dum ‘n’ bass with a punky, 2Tone attitude, Dub Pistols unleash their seventh album. Crazy Diamonds is guest-heavy, featuring the likes of Too Many T’s, Seanie T, MC Navigator, Earl 16, Ragga Twins, Cuttie Ranks, Lindy Layton and Beenie Man.
When I first heard this, I was blown away. So, why just 6/10, then? It just doesn’t reward repeated listening. That doesn't apply to every track. London Calling and Mad On The Road are great songs. Rising could be an outtake from Leftism. Baby I Love You is a glorious slab of brass-embellished dub. There is nothing that grates but, those aside, there is nothing really to love either. Boom, Lively or the Crazy Diamond would be at home playing in Top Shop.
For the most part, this is harmless, unchallenging and enjoyable enough. If it came on, I’d be more than happy to listen to it but, a few moments of near brilliance aside, I won’t be going out of my way to listen to it again. This sounds like a band comfortable with where they are and not challenging themselves but, for all that, I genuinely believe most of these tracks will be thoroughly enjoyable live.
6/10
