The Beat (V.16 #1 1997, pp.53-54) - 4 stars out of 5 - "...most of the songs are solid and Anthony B is worth checking out, especially if you think that there are no positive djs out there."
Personnel: Anthony B.; D. Lara, J. Moore, J. Cole, Sly Dunbar, Robbie Shakespear, Mafia & Fluxy, Danny Brownie, Fire House Crew, Robbie Lyn, Jazzwad, Dean Fraser, David Madden, Nambo.
Engineers include: Culture Lee, Wingie, Jason.
Anthony B appeared on the dancehall scene in the mid-'90s, a member of an emergent movement that emphasized roots and culture themes, classic reggae riddims, and melodic hooks. Initially just another youthful singjay following in the steps of Buju Banton (whose TIL SHILOH had started this cultural renaissance in reggae), Anthony B quickly made a name for himself with an energetic stage presence and a series of great singles for the Star Trail crew. 1995's debut SO MANY THINGS solidified Anthony B's growing reputation as one of reggae's brightest new stars.
SO MANY THINGS owes a heavy debt to TIL SHILOH in form but stands on its own as one of the '90s finest reggae albums. Every song overflows with hooks and heavy beats-from the typical dancehall tracks ("Swarm Me," "Hurt The Heart") to more offbeat fare (a poignant cover of Tracy Chapman's "Cold Feet"). The album's two gigantic singles still receive regular airplay. "Raid the Barn," a catchy, socialist sing-along originally written for singer Everton Blender, may be the obvious hit; but "Fire Pon Rome," banned in Jamaica for its incendiary attack on the Vatican, is more anthemic, with understated percussion and a slower beat.