ARMSTRONG,TIM - A Poet's Life (Sealed) (LP)

Tim Armstrong, guitarist and frontman of Rancid, took a different path on his 2007 solo debut, with able backing from L.A. reggae revivalists the Aggrolites, Armstrong crafted a grooving, fun-filled modern reggae album, influenced by ska, rock steady, roots reggae, and dancehall and filtered through a modern pop-punk attitude. The sound of the record (nimble, jumped-up, and retro but fully modern) impresses instantly, but as the record goes on, Armstrong’s voice emerges as the star. His raspy croon, staccato toasting, and ragged shout fit the reggae sound surprisingly well.