Eek-A-Mouse – Wa-Do-Dem – Vinyl, LP, Reissue, VP Records, 2012
Brand new, sealed. Wa Do Dem is the second album by Jamaican reggae artist Eek-A-Mouse, released in 1981. The album is one of his breakthrough works, showcasing his distinctive vocal style, which blends singjay (a half-sung, half-deejayed delivery) and playful, offbeat lyrics. Eek-A-Mouse’s unique sound helped to define the dancehall genre, blending roots reggae with a more rhythmically complex and energetic vibe that would come to characterize much of 1980s reggae.
The title track “Wa-Do-Dem” became a massive hit, both in Jamaica and internationally. It perfectly captures Eek-A-Mouse’s eccentric delivery and nonsensical lyricism, which stood out against more traditional roots reggae themes. His singjay approach uses melodic chanting interspersed with humorous vocal effects, making the tracks incredibly catchy and fun. Tracks like “Ganja Smuggling” reflect the underground economy in Jamaica and, combined with Eek-A-Mouse’s comical storytelling, solidify his status as a dancehall pioneer. The album’s beats are driven by infectious one-drop rhythms, heavy basslines, and crisp percussion, aligning with the sound of classic reggae but offering something fresher and more playful.
