Reggae Vibes That Stick: A Look at Stanrick’s Cool Deadly
Alright, let’s get into Stanrick’s 2009 reggae gem, Cool Deadly. Released under VP Records (a label that knows its way around good reggae), this album feels like a warm Caribbean breeze on a hot day. It’s got that classic reggae groove but also some fresh twists that make it stand out. The production team—Courtney Cole and Barry O’Hare—did their thing, and mastering wizards Chris Scott and Paul Shields made sure it all sounded crisp. And can we talk about the lineup of musicians? Sly & Robbie, Firehouse Crew, Computer Paul—these are names you don’t mess with. They brought their A-game here.
Now, full disclosure, I didn’t go track by track (there’s a lot!), but two songs really stuck with me: “Watching You (feat. Papa San)” and “I Will Be Good To You.” Let me tell ya why.
First up, “Watching You.” Oh man, this one hits different. There’s something haunting yet beautiful about how Stanrick delivers those lyrics. Papa San jumps in, adding this raw grittiness that just grabs you by the soul. The rhythm is steady, almost hypnotic, and before you know it, you’re swaying side to side like you’re on a beach somewhere. This track isn’t just music—it’s an experience. Like, you feel watched, understood, maybe even judged—but in a way that makes you want to grow. Deep stuff for sure.
Then there’s “I Will Be Good To You,” which is kinda the opposite vibe but equally unforgettable. It’s smooth, comforting, and straight-up romantic without being cheesy. When Stanrick sings about treating someone right, you believe him. You feel it. It’s like he’s promising not just love but respect too. The melody wraps around you like a hug, and honestly, who doesn’t need more songs like that in their life?
What strikes me most about Cool Deadly is how balanced it feels. Some tracks bring the chill reggae vibes you’d expect, while others hit harder emotionally. Tracks like “Hold My Hand” and “Coming Home” have this universal appeal—they remind you of simpler times, even if your own life ain’t so simple anymore. And then there’s “Where Is the Love,” which, yeah, might sound cliché as a title, but trust me, it’s anything but basic. It asks questions we’re all thinking but rarely say out loud.
One thing I gotta mention—the repetition of certain tracks (“Ready and Waiting,” “Cool and Deadly”) threw me off at first. Was it intentional? Did they run out of ideas? Or was it just a quirky choice? Either way, it adds character. Kinda like when your favorite artist leaves little imperfections in their work because perfection is boring anyway.
Reflecting on this album, I realize Cool Deadly isn’t trying to reinvent reggae—it’s honoring it. But what makes it special is how personal it feels. Stanrick isn’t just singing; he’s sharing pieces of himself. And weirdly enough, listening to it feels like catching up with an old friend. Maybe that’s why the album still holds up over a decade later.
Oh, random thought: If this album were a drink, it’d be coconut water with a shot of rum—refreshing but with a kick. Yeah, I said it. Check it out if you haven’t already.
