Dennis Bovell was one of the founder members of Matumbi - a group at the forefront of the UK reggae scene in the early 1970's. Reputation established, Dennis extended his horizons working with legends such as I Roy and Johnny Clarke and lent a helping hand to 1980s pop acts like The Thompson Twins and Bananarama.

All Over The World comes some 25 years since his last album on EMI and is a collection of new and newly recorded material. It's a mature piece of work with everything from the soulful Pickin' Up The Pieces, Special and Dancehall, through to a joyful All Over The World and upbeat Lovers Rock to a All The Way with its excellent lead guitar work and the African roots O Mama O Papa.

All Over The World is at times innovative and inspired demonstrating that Bovell has still got what it takes. And coming from someone who would rather roll naked in a bed of nettles than listen to reggae, that's praise indeed.

****

Review by Pete Whalley

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly