Rastafarian singjay Federal is hoping his debut album will give him his musical breakthrough.

His set, Whirlwind, comprises 12 tracks and was released in August.

The singjay said each song on the album tells a story.

“The songs are real… it’s not thoughts that I just get into the back of my head and then put on a beat. What makes the album special is that it not only depicts my story, but others around me. Each song has a storyline that everyone can relate to,” Federal told Jamaica Observer.

Among the track listings are Run Come with the Rastaman Loving, Clean and Fresh, Search Fi Di Paper, and Dibi Dibi.

“I really hope that this album will not only give me my musical break but will be the avenue for aspiring artistes to get their break. I really believe in helping others along the way, so I hope that this production will give me that opportunity,” he said.

Whirlwind features production works from Nico Hines and Indeca Records.

Federal (given name is Rohan Gracey) was born in Westmoreland but relocated to Portmore, St Catherine during his childhood.

“I wasn’t one of the fortunate ones who got a chance to get a secondary education but I later enrolled in a HEART/NTA (National Training Agency) programme. My passion for music was growing also and at the age of 20, I released my debut single called

Step Up Inna Life,” he said.

Other singles followed, including Ride She A Ride and Jah Never Fail I.

— Simone Morgan-Lindo