Reviews

Album: Truth Will Reveal, Release February 9, 2008

Artist: Souljah Fyah

Label: Independent

Rating: 4

Review: Cynics, paid or otherwise, love to rag on reggae. "It all sounds the same," they complain. I dare them to say so after listening to Souljah Fyah's second effort, Truth Will Reveal. Fronted by a powerful -- yet graceful -- and charismatic woman, the local musicians offer the usual spliff-rolling, party grooves and social-activist lyrics, but they also add enough tantalizing ear candy to keep listeners captivated -- whether it be horns (Rwanda), ringing telephones (Fully Charged), trip-hoppish atmospherics (African Lyric) or a heartwarming conversation between singer/bassist Janaya Ellis and her daughter (Praylude). With her soft, tender vocals, Ellis (also known as Sista J) provides Souljah Fyah's greatest gift to reggae -- elevating it from an "I-shot-the-sheriff/No-woman-no-cry" cliche to an intensely personal and touching genre.

Sandra Sperounes

"...the top drawer of Alberta talent!..."
Lionel Rault
CKUA host of the Nine to Noon show

"Souljah Fyah showed up in top form, inspirational leader Janaya Ellis setting the room on fire with her heartfelt presence and constant call for positive action... Ellis' tiny frame practically raised from the ground, glowing as her wild, dreadlocked mane spiraled around her head, following the beat.  As the night went on and sweat poured from every pore, Souljah Fyah solidified their reputation as one of the most dedicated and beloved local acts around ... the supreme leaders of Edmonton's reggae scene."
See Magazine
January 12, 2006  

"...Edmonton group Souljah Fyah is part of the changing of the reggae guard in a number of ways..."
Shereen Tuomi
2005 Calgary Reggae Festival preview

"If Janaya Ellis ever decided to enter Canadian Idol, she’d annihilate the competition..."
Sandra Sperounes
The Edmonton Journal
July 24, 2003