Two of America’s top soul singers have just come together for what, on the surface at any rate, is an unusual project. Philadelphia’s neo-soulster MUSIQ SOULCHILD has joined forces with Chicago’s SYLEENA JOHNSON for a reggae album.

Entitled ‘9INE’ (yes there are 9 new songs on it), the album, we’re told, was a spontaneous affair. The project was the brain child of top reggae producer Kemar McGregor whose vision has always been to get established non-Jamaican singers to work in the reggae genre. While working on what was to be a various artists set, he recorded a duet between Soulchild and Syleena and the chemistry was such that the trio decided to record a whole album.

The nine new songs were a collaborative affair and the whole thing was recorded in just nine days. The set’s big tune is the lead single – ‘Feel The Fire’. It’s a big blend of pop and soul with just a garnish of reggae and Syleena’s in fine soulful form – as befits the daughter of soul legend Syl Johnson. The tune comes in a dance hall style remix at the end (so there are actually ten songs on the set).

‘Pieces Of You’ is another cut that comes recommended… a light, pleasing jaunt in the lovers rock style… two great voices combining in soul.

MUSIQ SOUL CHILD AND SYLEENA JOHNSON’S ‘9INE’ IS OUT NOW ON SHANACHIE RECORDS.