Song: Let Love Rule

Overall Impression:
Utterly charming and resoundingly uplifting, “Let Love Rule” is a fun-loving pop-infused reggae track that has both fantastic groove and heaps of character. John Hamilton has perfectly married the pop and reggae genres together in expert fashion and has created an authentic and pleasurable listening experience that effortlessly manages to both raise a smile and get you swaying to the beat, I can see why this track won the pop category in The Great American Song Contest, and as John says, not bad at all for a Canadian! Bravo!

Strongest Point(s):
Opening with the timeless sound of a wah infused electric guitar wailing away, the general flavor of the track is quickly and efficiently established, setting the scene perfectly and letting listeners know that they are in for a terrifically fun and lighthearted time, which is something I think we are all in need of in light of recent events! A classic reggae-tinted rhythmic groove nicely propels the track forward in a brilliantly laid back and chilled manner, gently carrying the listener with it and reinforcing the song’s simple desire to present a listening experience that is steeped in relaxing vibes and a feeling of calm. There is a high level of positivity running through the lyrics that both helps them be as accessible as possible and wholly relatable, and when paired with the excellent lead vocal performance, it’s a match made in heaven. It’s evident that a lot of time has clearly gone into every aspect of “Let Love Rule”, from the inspired songwriting to the solid arrangement, the assured performances to the polished production, each and every element has been treated with both great care and attentiveness.

Area(s) of Improvement:
This is a solid track and I personally think it balances all its elements very well. I think it works very well and I don’t see any areas that would benefit from any tweaking.

Target Audience Appeal:
“Let Love Rule” is a fantastic example of what the Reggae pop genre has to offer, and what an example it is!

Artist target suggestions:
UB40, Dawn Penn, Inner Circle, Jimmy Sommerville, Jimmy Cliff, Eddie Lovette, Steel Pulse, Bruno Mars.

Vocals: Strength
Lyrics: Strength
Instrumental Performance/Execution: Strength
Melody/Rhythm: Strength
Arrangement/Flow: Strength
Recording Quality/Overall Mix: Strength

About The Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed “Guitar Nerd”, Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.