“2023 was a dreadful year for reggae records, with most of Jamaica’s brightest lights taking the year to tour instead of putting out new music. But even in a banner year, this album would be a standout. With Winta James, Jamaica’s very best producer, at the controls, the rhythm tracks are flawless, timeless. But it’s Samory I’s vocals that take Strength to instant-classic territory, the highest of heights. It’s not just that every bar is tucked into the deepest part of the pocket. It’s also that Samory somehow manages to be vulnerable, broken, triumphant, plaintive, and passionate all at once — all in the same chorus, even.”

“Samory I is among the most compelling Jamaican voices of this generation, whose mesmeric tone is both a guttural cry and a clarion call to collective mobilization.”

“Strength is an extraordinary oeuvre, combining intelligent compositions with equally clever songwriting and that under-your-skin voice of Samory I – an artist that has stories to tell which deserve every bit of our attention!”