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Review

Album Review: Bugle - Apex

09/13/2024

by Gardy Stein

Apex describes a tip, peak or summit, both in its literal and in its metaphorical sense. By choosing to call his new album Apex, Bugle expresses his conviction that this work was created from the highest point in his career, and the reactions its release has garnered so far well confirm this notion.

While there are several producers that contributed to the creation of the 14 tracks included, Bugle himself was involved in every one of them, be it as co-producer, composer or songwriter (and singer, of course), thus guaranteeing continuity and stability – a red string. In fact, the only pieces in which his voice is not heard are the Apex Introduction, a thundering Rastafarian confirmation by dub poet  Ras Shadai, and the Apex Interlude, which boasts the big bad Rory Stonelove.  

Heads Up and Upside Down open the ride through a diversity of topics and styles, delivering the motivational and reflective lyrics Bugle is known for. The first of those, produced by Chad Simpson and Mr. G Music, sounds like one of the classic digital reggae riddims of the 1980s and assures us that goodness is all around and Jah will set things right, even though financial and social problems are plenty. “People me know unu fed up, but me a beg unu just hold unu head up!” Slower in pace, the subsequent tune talks about the dangers associated with fake news, weapons, and the current state of the world.

Other songs on which the singer is heard solo are Promise, a wonderful roots devotion created by Richard Bramwell addressing the empty promises politicians are quick to deliver when election time comes, the heartfelt Bad Dream in which Bugle shares his pain about the loss of a friend, and Ego. Can’t leave out Patience, God & Time of course, a personal favorite, one of those timeless hymns that Bugle has delivered on every album so far (Anointed in 2014, Be Yourself in 2017, Appreciation in 2019 and My Life in 2021). Produced by Lockecity Music, it draws from the celestial harmonies of Pachelbel’s Kanon in D, here embellished with strings and a tender background chorus, and the singer tops it all off with his reassuring voice and words about what is essential in life.  

All other tracks are combinations, bringing a host of talent to this summit. First to mention among those is definitely Thank You Lord, a lighthouse track of the album, not only because of its impressive contributors, but also because of the musical sweetness. Composers Jemoi Monteith and Owen “Bassy” Reynolds created a relaxed but catchy melody which was subsequently elaborated on by producers DJ Bambino, J. Twiss and Bugle. With Buju Banton and Damian Marley alongside Bugle himself, three of the most unique voices of contemporary Jamaican music are united on this piece. Each adds his own spin to what it is he’s thankful for, and the impressive visuals that accompany the track don’t show any of the artists, but ordinary people at work or listening to music, children playing, nature unfolding its splendor… beautiful!

“Bugle and the Prophet – class in session” In Hopes (Small World), we hear the Fyah Man Capleton on the mic, delivering a wake-up call to the sluggards, thieves, liars, and especially to those who ignore  the interconnectedness of each and every one, the global repercussions even small actions and choices have. “Who do you think you are? We’re living in a small world!” Continuing this conscious vibe, Heart Too Clean is probably the biggest surprise of the release, introducing the versatile singer Chaps aka Olaf Blackwood. Hailing from Saint Elizabeth Parish, he has worked as songwriter mostly in the past (writing hits for the likes of Tessanne Chin and Shaggy), but starts to put his voice out as well, having the vocals, lyrics, and vision to make a mark on the scene.

Three songs turn to the eternal subject of love and physical attraction: Love Again featuring Maxi Priest and, giving the stage to the ladies, the sexy Inside Warm with Tifa as well as Love Story with Gihrl, a new voice outta Spanish Town that Bugle started to work with recently. The album closes with an ode to the island of Jah-Meck-Yah, featuring Military Man, and Brutal Murderer. A timeless classic by Barrington Levy, the latter has been given a thorough rejuvenation treatment by prominent producer Kemar McGregor, and Bugle makes it his own by adding his musings about the importance of a pure soul and a “heart of gold”.

Filled with messages of faith, truth and perseverance, Apex is indeed a top addition to Bugle’s musical catalogue, crafted by bright minds and skilled hands too many to mention. May it do what it is supposed to do and reach as many out there as possible! In a message to his fans transmitted by the album’s press release, the artist says: “Despite the challenges, I can confidently say there is nothing in this world I'd rather do than make music. I take immense pride in my work, ensuring that my music will endure for generations to come. I will always aim to educate while I entertain. (…) Remember to 'appreciate life,' and always strive to turn negatives into positives. 'Apex' stays on top of your game - whatever game you choose to play, play it right. A heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you.”

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