Only a Woman – Judy Mowatt

This is one of Judy Mowatt's better solo albums. An alumna of the Wailers (for whom she sang backup with Marcia Griffiths and Rita Marley), she brings gospel phrasing and a rich alto voice to her repertoire, which consists here of three covers (one a Curtis Mayfield song) and seven originals. Her version of "Big Woman" sounds a little out of place on this program of cultural and spiritual message songs, but it's still very charming. Mowatt's all-star studio band provides her with propulsive grooves and her own production is excellent; note in particular the midtempo skank of "You Don't Care," and the Nyahbinghi drumming on "King of Kings." "You're My People" is upbeat and inspiring, as is much of the rest of the program. Highly recommended. ~ Rick Anderson, All Music Guide