Mark Wonder “Working Wonders” 
Release Date: June 29, 2012 
Label: Oneness Records 

Mark Wonder, born Mark Thompson in Kingston, Jamaica – for months now has been teasing the fans with the single “Guiding Light”- fea. Sizzla – produced by Altafaan and Oneness records.  This song has gained so much attention, that fans worldwide have been inquiring as to when the CD will be released.  Wait no longer. This highly anticipated sixth works titled Mark Wonder‘s Working Wonders’    produced by – Bavarian production house – Oneness records, will be released worldwide this Friday June 29, 2012.

If you are familiar with any of Mark Wonder’s work, you would already know that Mark moves along melodious in song while never ever missing a beat.  Whether the song is giving thanks and praises to JAH or a genuine love song, he has proven time and time again his musical prowess. 
I would have never thought after his previous works – “Victory- the Mystery Unfolds” and “True Stories of Mark Wonder and Friends”, that he could surpass those great bodies of works. But he did. That just shows that he is definitely top shelf and aiming for the stars. I am simply knocked out of my socks again, after listening to every song as each song hold its own greatness.  It is the composition and delivery in each song that makes it extra special and unique. This CD is definitely a must have collection.

When approached to review this album, I was ecstatic for more than one reason.  I have come to know Mark and his music well over the years and with each release I am still amazed.  

He is not referred to as Jamaica’s 8th wonder for nothing.  In my opinion he is top in the culture roots and reggae game.  There are not too many artists out there right now that can surpass him when it comes to keeping to the roots of things.

It has been 2 years since Mark released the critically acclaimed CD Mark Wonder and Friends. That CD gained popularity like a firestorm. 
I can see Mark Wonders ‘ Working Wonders” not only causing a firestorm, but also a magnitude 10 earthquake, most definitely off the charts. With this CD there was no skipping of the songs. Each song was deliciously marvelous.  Being a DJ there are times when you listen to the title song of an Album and you move on; more times than not it proves to be mediocre.  However, when I listened to the title of this album, track no. 12 “Working Wonders” it captured my attention.  I had to listen to it literally 4 times, as I could not believe my ears, as in the background it says “Dread at the Controls”.  Mikey Dread fans for sure will love this track up. The song is great, the music, the words, the feelings and the message. However; it is just that little nostalgic piece that makes this song special to the utmost, it is done so with perfection and warms my heart. (Smile). This track is surely an honorable reflection on the composer of that snippet – Michael G. Campbell (aka Mikey Dread).

All in all Mark Wonders – "Working Wonders " is a masterpiece from track 1 to 15 – he delivers a knock – out musical punch in Roots n Culture Reggae. Mark moves along through the roots of reggae giving thanks and praises to the most high with song such as “Ancient Day’s” (track 1), the sweeter side of this Rastaman can be witnessed with "Distant lover" (track no. 6) to where we are given hope with his most soulful wrenching song “My Child” (track 4), guaranteed to send thrills through your soul. And just when you think you just can't take another punch, he throws in "As the world turns" fea. Natural Black (man this song will just keep you rocking the two of them together is just magical. (My favorite). Track no. 13 – Mark has us walking gloriously down “Freedom Street” finding a peace of mind, having stood the test of time. (Smile) Coming off the high of this song we light-heartedly move on down the road to – sweet redemption Track no. 14 – Zion’s Glory – once we are schooled on patience of days – worthy of praise, we follow the trumpets on to purification – Track no. 15 – send down the rain – feat. Mikey Melody.  

After honestly listening to song after song on “Working Wonders”, my mind is just boggled and the age old question arises as to why Mark Wonder obviously gifted and continually working wonders is not where he needs to be in the industry.  

In a nutshell Mark Wonder delivery is always one that reaches the heart and soul like a strong Rastaman magnet enticing you to hold on to Love.  His lyrics are always conscious, constantly encouraging us in the way of JAH’s Love.  He invites us to give praises, glory and majestic to the King.  When he sings about a woman it is always with deep honor and respect.   
Solid arrangements and smooth vocals are found in each song brand, Mark has the ability to sing a song and honestly own it. Through this work it makes you know for sure "jah's work is so amazing". 
 

Production info: 

Moritz "Morry Da Baron" von Korff is the bass player for Dub Inc. and the mastermind behind Munich-based Oneness Records – his partner is Benjamin "Benji" Zecher.

For the most part the 15 tunes on the album are based on Oneness riddims which were recorded live by members of Dub Inc. & Gentleman's Far East Band. 
The album features Sizzla, Natural Black and Mikey Melody.