Ziggy Marley
Wild and Free
Tuff Gong
While political as ever, Wild and Free, Ziggy Marley’s latest studio release is also extremely personal. The title and opening track not only alludes to the legalization of marijuana but was used as the campaign song for Prop. 19. Oddly enough, track collaborator actor Woody Harrelson (Zombieland, The Messenger, Semi-Pro) was not bad; a little rough around the edges but overall he hits his notes. Not the same can be said about “It” collaborator Heavy D. Not that Heavy D is a bad vocalist, but for a semi-melancholy track, his hip-hop parts were interruptive and a bit annoying. Other tracks such as “Personal Revolution,” “Get Out of Town” and “Road Less Traveled” touch more on Marley’s personal struggles from his own political views to life choices and his father, the late Bob Marley. Balance it all with positive vibes and carefree grooves and you get Wild and Free, a catchy record that’s easy on the ears, mind and soul. (Lynn Lieu)