Chaka Demus & Pliers

Gathering together a dozen of Chaka Demus & Pliers' early singles, Gold is Exhibit A in the case for the duo's stardom. The sheer variety of the tracks is proof positive of their versatility, as adept at hardcore dancehall as they are at more melodic, poppier numbers. The toasters recorded for most of of Jamaica's top producers, and thus this album showcases their talents as well. No matter what the producers threw at them, Chaka Demus & Pliers handled it with ease. Given a sparse rhythm by Lloyd "Pickout" Dennis, Demus hit back with an infectious rap and the hit "Bogle Dance." Adrian Genus gave the pair a little more to work with for "Thief," but the pliant Pliers provided a melody so sublime, it takes several listens to realize he's carrying it unaided. This admonishment to robbers is an unusual cultural theme from the pair, who tended to wax lyrically over feminine delights. An equally notable exception is the patriotic "Sweet Jamaica," Demus' speed-rapped homage to his home over producer Dennis' militaristic beats. Then again, no one can create a more rousing marching beat than Prince Jammy, although Bobby Digital tries hard, and melding a martial rhythm to rave effects is sheer brilliance, as "You Send Come Call Me" shows. That was another Demus toasting smash, but Mafia & Fluxy's "Wining Machine" (mislabeled here as "Winning Machine") takes the production prize with its hodgepodge of way cool effects. Together, Chaka Demus & Pliers turn it into a sweet tribute to their best girl. At the other end of the dancehall spectrum was their debut single, the breezy smash hit "Gal Wine." Ossie Hibbert's production was equally effective on the charming "A Terror," a showcase for Spanner Banner, Pliers' younger -- but equally sweet-singing -- brother. His duet with Demus is a real pleasure to behold. Gold features 12 tracks; all are deserved hits but, amazingly enough, none were responsible for the pair's international success. ~ Jo-Ann Greene, All Music Guide