MOST serious artistes take a break before releasing a follow-up album and song. It was no different for desmond the songwriter, who took his time crafting Another Guess Coming, his second album.

The 11-song set, which the New York-based singer describes as an “hybrid of roots-reggae, dancehall, soul and pop, hears him expressing thoughts on diverse topics including marijuana (Mary Jane), employment (Work, I’m Sorry) and Jamaican greatness (#Jamaicanbelike).

“My fans say my music is inspiring, meaningful, relaxing, and at times humorous. My songwriting is inspired by my personal experience and what is going on in the world,” said desmond the songwriter.

Another Guess Coming was released three years after Happiness is Priceless, his well-received debut. That project drew favourable reviews from publications such as Britain’s Pop Magazine which named it among their Top 50 Albums of 2020.

Although Happiness is Priceless also made the South Florida Reggae Chart, desmond the songwriter anticipates the base among Jamaicans to grow once his sound catches on overseas.

“I think most of Jamaica have heard of me; I have been accepted by the classical and gospel communities. I think the reggae community will accept me as soon as I am endorsed by foreigners,” he said.

Born and raised in east Kingston, desmond the songwriter considers Bob Marley his biggest influence. He credits listening “to every record that is released that I know about” for his eclectic taste in music.

For Another Guess Coming, desmond the songwriter worked with several top musicians, including drummer Desi Jones, saxophonist Dean Fraser, bassist Leebert “Gibby” Morrison, and guitarist Andy Bassford.

— Howard Campbell