Griffiths's latest release, Shining Time, presents a variety of new songs alongside thoughtfully considered reggae interpretations of American pop standards. Included is her most recent hit, "Back in the Days," a roots-rocking tribute to several dancehall veterans. She teams up with Shaggy on the pleasant "Harmony," strikes just the right notes with Beres Hammond on the sophisticated lovers rock of "Focusing Time," and shines brilliantly with singer/songwriter Annette Brissett on "Jah Daughter." Riding a searing beat best described as a modern incarnation of Marley's "Exodus," Brissett's raspy, lower range vocals contrast with Griffiths's honeyed tone as the two give praises for their divinely inspired persistence in music-making: "I await upon my blessings, I await upon my songs/In the morning and the evenings, I await whenever He calls."
From the soulful cover of the Stevie Wonder-penned, Aretha Franklin classic "Until You Come Back To Me," to the title ballad that reflects decades of dedication to her craft ("The seeds I've sown have finally grown, it feels like shining time at last," she sings), Griffiths and her executive producers Hopeton Lindo, Syl Gordon, and Patrick Lindsay select songs suitable to Griffiths's timeless talent.
