Album Review: Lucky Thing To Go A School by Carlos Carlton
Carlos Carlton’s Lucky Thing To Go A School is a reggae gem that brings the laid-back vibes of Jamaica straight to your ears. Released under Kalliwa Musik, this album dives deep into classic reggae and dancehall styles without overcomplicating things. It’s raw, it’s real, and it feels like a warm breeze on a Kingston afternoon.
The album only has two tracks—both versions of “Lucky Thing To Go A School”—but don’t let that fool ya. These aren’t just remixes; they’re carefully crafted takes that show off different shades of the same vibe. The producers, Stucky and Traxin, clearly had fun with this one, tweaking beats and layering sounds in ways that keep you hooked.
Let’s talk about the original version first. From the opening notes, you can tell it’s got soul. The rhythm hits hard but stays smooth, with a bassline that feels like it could go on forever. What makes this track stick in my head isn’t just the groove—it’s the lyrics. They’re simple yet meaningful, celebrating education as a blessing rather than a chore. Lines like "school is a lucky thing" might sound cheesy at first, but after a few listens, they hit differently. It’s almost poetic how Carlton flips something so ordinary into a message worth remembering.
Now, onto the “Version” track. If you love instrumentals, this one’s for you. Stripped-down vocals give room for the production to shine. There’s more space here, letting each drum hit and synth ripple breathe. This version feels darker, moodier even, compared to its upbeat sibling. You can hear the Dancehall influence creeping in, especially in the way the percussion builds up. It’s hypnotic, man. I found myself zoning out while listening to it, picturing palm trees swaying in slow motion.
One thing that stands out is how polished yet authentic everything sounds. Stucky and Traxin nailed the arrangement, keeping the essence of Jamaican music alive without drowning it in modern tricks. That balance between old-school charm and fresh energy? Yeah, that’s what makes this project special.
At the end of the day, Lucky Thing To Go A School might not be groundbreaking, but it doesn’t need to be. Sometimes, all we want is an album that feels good, tells a story, and reminds us of life’s simple joys. Who would’ve thought a tune about going to school could feel so…lucky?
Final thought: If schools played reggae instead of ringing bells, maybe Mondays wouldn’t feel so bad. Just saying.
Rating: 7.5/10
