Under normal circumstances the rule of Caribbean music is easy to remember -- if the average yanqui can understand the words, it's not that great. However, the roots-and-culture vibes emananting from New York bred Dr. Israel buck the conventions on his latest album, Inna City Pressure, delivering a slick, well thought out album that can appeal to listeners stateside or yardi.

Combining an accessible patois and a wide variety of musical backgrounds, the good Doctor paints a smoky picture of a struggling yet proud people. Borrowing the positive feelings of the Marley clan and the hip hop mindset of his home town, this album sways from intellectual makeout music (throw on "Israel" when your next hot date sits down at your place) to upbeat dance numbers (the title track) and hits almost every stop in between.

Of special notice is a truly ragga remake of "Armagideon Time," recently brought back to the public eye by last year's Grosse Point Blank soundtrack. "A lotta people won't get no justice to-niiiight!" Dr. Israel croons, his chocolate milky voice doing the lambada into your ear. It's safe to say, with the improved production, that this may just be better than the original.

Overall, this is not your hardcore club album (though you could definitely get the party grinding with some of the songs here), but one to meditate on at home with your calm down substance of choice (this writer prefers a good, stiff Snapple). The lyrics are thoughtful without being overbearing, the sounds relaxing without being sleepy, the vibe reggae enough to give it flavor but hip hop/American enough to raise an eyebrow in interest. The prescription here calls for more of this sweet, silky stuff, but don't call the Doctor in the morning -- he may want to sleep in!