Xana Romeo - The Divine Blueprint + The Divine Dub (Charmax Music/Xana Romeo Music)

As a guitarist and vocalist, Jallanzo was previously active with Dubtonic Kru, and for 'The Divine Blueprint' he once again joined forces with former bandmates Strickland Stone (bass) and Luke Dixon (keys). Add the horn section of the outstanding Danish Guiding Star Orchestra, and you know you're in good hands.

Xana Romeo: "This is not simply an album. This is 'The Divine Blueprint'! I am on a mission to correct the false narrative that roots reggae is on the decline. This album stands as proof that reggae is alive, evolving and thriving."

So we know what to expect, and on nearly every track of 'The Divine Blueprint', Rastafari is never far away.

At the same time, the album marks a farewell to Xana's father Max, who passed away just under a year ago. 'Over All' gives us one final duet with the master himself, and instantly becomes our personal favorite on the track list, while 'Message For You' is a cover of a Max Romeo song, originally released as 'Rich People' on 'Fari - Captain Of My Ship', the album he recorded with Jah Shaka back in 1992.

Xana also teams up once more with her brother Azizzi. 'Bloodline' touches on the biblical lineage of Ethiopian emperors such as Menelik II and Haile Selassie, while at the same time subtly nodding to their own heritage as children of reggae royalty, now ready to carry their father Max's torch forward.

Other guests include Micah Shemaiah on 'Will The Sun Come Out Today?', Lutan Fyah lending powerful vocal support to the excellent 'The Meek', and Jallanzo himself, who can be heard on 'Carry On'.

The closing track and bonus cut, 'Folie À Deux', is not reggae at all, but irresistibly catchy disco-funk, instantly bringing to mind 'Don't Stop The Music', the 1980 global hit by Yarbrough & Peoples.

Highly enjoyable album, and clear proof that Xana Romeo has grown into a mature voice within contemporary roots reggae.