Vigilance

The ninth issue in the Millennium Series reissue of 35 Mighty Sparrow titles is a nod back to the late '80s. This is the king of calypso at his soca-rocking best, scathing down the hypocrites and those who would kill and murder in the name of governing the people. Here are some of Sparrow's finest moments: "Trini-Political Change," "Democracy in Haiti," "I Owe No Apology," "Interdependence," and more. It's true that "Isolate Racist South Africa" may sound dated as a title, but the message and its righteous intent skanking over all that rhythm is still pertinent — just change the name of the country. Sparrow's "London Bridge" is a roots rhythm anthem as it rails on the situation in Brixton with a thudding backbeat and careening horn section that sounds like the Skatalites. Also, "Federation," which closes the album, boasts one of the most complex basslines ever laid down in one of Sparrow's arrangements as well as one of the most astringent steel drum solos in recorded music history. This record is pure rage motivated by pure love, and that, as Che Guevara would say, is exactly what the revolutionary's heart should be made of. One can't help wonder as this plate scuds down the sound system, reeling, rocking, and shimmying in the backbone and brain of every punter within 100 yards of the sound box, if music can indeed change the world.